Ariens Co. said Wednesday it reached an agreement to acquire Norwegian power equipment distributor Sovde of Rygge, Norway.

Sovde will continue to operate as a distributor between Ariens and independent power equipment dealers in Norway, the company said.

"While it is not part of our long-term strategy to acquire distributorships, the decision was based on a 40-year relationship with the Sovde family who grew the Ariens Sno-Thro brand to become the largest-selling snow thrower brand in Norway," said Dan Ariens, president and CEO.

Ariens also recently acquired British tractor company Countax.

Ariens Co., headquartered in Brillion, is a manufacturer of outdoor power equipment for consumer and professional use