Australian National Industries was an Australian heavy engineering company with a diverse range of holdings.
History
In 1911 John McGrath began to sell motor vehicles. It operated the first public garage in New South Wales. The company held motor vehicle franchises for many makes of cars. In 1929, it diversified into importing steel and engineering equipment. In the mid-1930s production of drop forgings commenced with motor dealerships opening in other states.[1]
In the early 1940s, the largest forging plant in Australia was opened in Lidcombe, producing forgings for the aircraft and munitions industry. Activities expanded and diversified to include general engineering. In February 1951 John McGrath Industries Limited was listed on the Sydney Stock Exchange. It was renamed Australian National Industries in 1956.[1]
Having acquired a 20% shareholding in ANI, Kerry Packer's Australian Consolidated Press (ACP) launched a takeover offer in April 1989.[2]