Harte Companies Limited has completed the management buyout of leading West Yorkshire-based shopfitting specialist Harte Woodworking and Harte Shop Equipment. Former Commercial Director Fraser Thomson will now lead the business as Managing Director.
The MBO involves the acquisition of Hunter Holdings Limited – the parent company of Harte Woodworking Ltd and Harte Shop Equipment Ltd – from Ian Hunter and D&E Hunter 1986 Settlement Trust.
Harte Companies Limited were advised on the multi-million pound deal by Yorkshire-based commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney.
Harte, based in Ossett, has over 50 years of experience in the design and manufacture of shopfitting equipment and employs 115 people.
The Ossett premises includes a 200sq metre showroom and extensive warehouse and manufacturing facilities. The company offers project management, design, product development and bespoke manufacturing and has worked with prominent brands and high street retailers including Estee Lauder Companies, Aldi, B&M and Home Bargains.
Managing Director Fraser Thomson has been with the business for almost 20 years, starting out as a junior sales executive and working his way up to Commercial Director, before heading the MBO, alongside Ryan Willis, who takes on the role of Commercial Director.
Thomson said: “This is an exciting milestone for myself and for Harte. I’m incredibly proud that the many years of learning, collaboration, and support from exceptional colleagues, customers and suppliers has led us to this MBO.
“I want to thank the great team I’ve had the privilege to work with, both past and present, and I’m looking forward to the exciting times ahead as we build for the future.”
The transaction was supported by a multidisciplinary team at Schofield Sweeney, including specialists from Corporate, Commercial Property, Employment and Commercial teams.
Commenting on the deal, Michael Cantwell, Partner in Schofield Sweeney’s Corporate team, said: “It is a fantastic story for Fraser, who joined this great Yorkshire business 20 years ago in a junior role and has now completed its acquisition. We are delighted that our multi-disciplinary team was able support Fraser and his team and look forward to providing on-going assistance.”
Image provided by Schofield Sweeney
