Big new broke out during SHOT Show 2023. Australian defense contractor NIOA acquired Barrett Firearms. The expansion immediately elevates NIOA even further, especially in American circles. The acquisition brings two family-owned companies together.

Australia’s NIOA Acquires Barrett Firearms

“NIOA’s association with Barrett dates back to 2008. We have been inspired by the story of Barrett and admire what Ronnie, Chris and the family have built over more than four decades,” said NIOA Group CEO Robert Nioa.

“It’s been a story of hard work, perseverance, and purpose culminating in the delivery of critical capability for the men and women of the US military and its allies around the world as well as exceptional products to law enforcement agencies and civilian markets.

“Together we share the same mission – combining our expertise and family business values will ensure Barrett carries on building the finest products in the world.’’

Barrett Business as Usual

Mr. Nioa confirmed the company would continue to operate under the Barrett brand as a separate division within the NIOA Group alongside NIOA Australia, NIOA New Zealand, the Australian Missile Corporation and the group’s investment in joint venture company Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions.

All management and staff at the Murfreesboro manufacturing facility in Tennessee retained positions. NIOA announced production to continue as normal. The company plans to expand manufacturing in Murfreesboro over time. Neither company disclosed the financial terms of the transaction.

Mr. Nioa also announced two key leadership appointments. Current Barrett President Sam Shallenberger takes over as Chief Executive Officer. Long-time Barrett Chief Operating Officer Bryan James assumes the role of President.

Ronnie Barrett and Chris Barrett will provide ongoing support as executive advisers to Barrett and the NIOA Group.

Barrett founder Ronnie Barrett said “Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Barrett story. Rob and the NIOA team have great respect for the legacy Barrett has created as the leader in long range precision rifles. It’s reassuring to know Barrett will be in good hands with a family-owned company that is focused on manufacturing and delivering world-class firearms and munitions to a global network.”

The Barrett acquisition marks an exciting next chapter for NIOA as the company’s entry to the US market where it has long-standing trusted relationships with American companies such as Vista Outdoors, Leupold, General Dynamics, Northrup Grumman, and the Winchester-operated Lake City ammunition plant.

About NOIA

• NOIA comprises largest Australian-owned supplier of firearms, weapons and ammunition to Australian and New Zealand defense forces, law enforcement agencies and commercial markets.
• NOIA serves as major tenant at the Australian government-owned, contractor-operated (GOCO) munitions facility at Benalla in Victoria. It currently manufactures 120mm munitions for the Abrams tank, along with 30mm and 34mm cannon ammo.
• Company contracted to deliver major weapons programs for the Australian and New Zealand militaries. Recently established an artillery shell forging factory in Maryborough, Queensland, in a joint venture with Rheinmetall of Germany.

 About Barrett

• Barrett is a family-owned and operated company and the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing.
• Barrett products used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the U.S. military and more than 75 U.S. Department of State-approved countries around the world.
• The Barrett Quality Management System (QMS) has received the prestigious ISO 9001:2015 certification for the design and manufacture of firearms, ammunition, and accessories, and to provide training for those systems.