Audax Private Equity-backed Flow Control HoldingsSteel & O’Brien manufacturing division has bought the U.S. assets of New Zealand-based Ultibend Industries.

Ultibend Industries, a manufacturer and provider of stainless-steel sanitary fittings, is exiting the U.S. market to realign the company’s focus on its markets in New Zealand and Australia. Ultibend, through the sale, is partnering with Steel & O’Brien to provide expanded service to its customers in the U.S. Through this deal, Steel & O’Brien will assume the U.S. fulfillment center of Ultibend, based in Torrence, Calif.

“Expanding our geographic footprint to better serve the west coast is the next step in our strategic growth plan,” comments Scott Kerns, CEO of Flow Control Holdings. “Having a physical presence with a Steel & O’Brien-managed facility in California positions us to serve the West Coast customer base.”