Redefined weekly news that will ignite your attention

COS expands in Northern QLD with Tosco acquisition

COS Founder Dominique Lyone with Co-Ceos Belinda Lyone and Amie Lyone

What’s happening?

COS, Australia’s largest 100% Australian-owned and operated national office product company, has acquired Tosco Business & Education, a well-established business in Northern Queensland.

The acquisition will be effective from October 1, 2024. This move follows COS’s expansion into Townsville in 2024 and allows COS to enter the Managed Print category, highlighting its strategy to deepen its market presence in the region.

Why it Matters?

The acquisition is a significant step for COS as it strengthens its position in Northern and Far North Queensland, providing a robust alternative to other suppliers in the region.

The blend of COS and Tosco’s capabilities will deliver enhanced services, competitive pricing, and a more extensive product range to the local market.

This expansion supports COS’s goal of being a trusted, locally-owned supplier that prioritises “Service Excellence.”

COS Vision and Values wheel

By the Numbers

  • COS was founded in 1977 by Dominique Lyone as a local office stationery business and has grown over 45 years to become a leading national supplier.
  • The company is now led by Dominique’s daughters, Belinda and Amie Lyone.
  • COS employs over 500 staff members across Australia.
  • COS operates with offices and warehouses in every state and territory, servicing thousands of B2B customers.
Co-CEOs Belinda and Amie Lyone (Photo from cos.net.au)

Zoom In

COS’s acquisition of Tosco ensures that all Tosco employees will be offered employment, maintaining local jobs and expertise.

The integration of both businesses will lead to operational synergies, enhancing service offerings for local businesses, schools, hospitals, and childcare centres.

Customers can expect improved access to a wider product range, a world-class website, and dedicated support from a team passionate about delivering quality service.

Zoom Out

This acquisition fits into a broader strategy for COS, which aims to expand its footprint in regional Australia, particularly in underserved markets like Northern Queensland.

It underscores COS’s commitment to maintaining its status as a leading, family-owned business that values local connections and provides an alternative to multinational suppliers.

 

COS’ warehouse (Photo from cos.net.au)

Local Impact

For North Queensland and Far North Queensland, this acquisition means greater access to office supplies, print management services, and more, from a locally owned and operated business.

COS’s presence in the region will provide significant buying influence, translating into competitive pricing and enhanced customer service for local buyers, including schools and businesses.

What to Look for Next?

Customers in Northern Queensland can look forward to a seamless transition as COS integrates Tosco’s operations, ensuring continuity of service and introducing new product lines and service offerings.

The company’s focus on leveraging the synergies between COS and Tosco will likely lead to further improvements in product availability, customer service, and cost efficiency for businesses, hospitals, and educational institutions across the region.