A business which makes self-watering planters, hanging baskets and window boxes for public places has been bought by a national bin and bollard business.
Amberol, which is based in Alfreton, Derbyshire, has been acquired by Wiltshire-based Leafield Environmental.
The Derbyshire firm has been making moulded products – including planters and litter bins – for more than 50 years. Its products are sold to councils, supermarkets and horticultural suppliers.
Leafield (which used to be called Linpac Environmental) has been going for more than 60 years, and employs around 60 staff with an annual turnover of around £6 million.
Accountants and specialist SME advisor Azets provided corporate finance and tax advisory services to Amberol’s owners on the multi-million-pound sale, helped by David Kaplan and Liz Mills of Nelsons Solicitors.
Amberol managing director Patience Atkinson, who is exiting the business following the sale, said: “As a shareholder of a family business, choosing the right time to exit was a challenge.
“Thanks to guidance from the Azets’ team, namely Mark Selby, Tom Eastwood and Doug Allan, who delivered full advisory service to us as the vendors, we’re confident in the continued success of Amberol under Leafield Environmental’s wing, at a crucial time in growth for both companies.
“We wish the team at Leafield Environmental all the best and look forward to following their journey.”
Azets partner Mark Selby said: “Working with the shareholders and management of Amberol has been a highly enjoyable journey from start to finish. In partnership with our Azets colleagues and Nelsons Solicitors, we delivered a fantastic deal for our client.
“Amberol’s products and brand are well-recognised within the street planter and street furniture market.
“New owners Leafield were identified as an ideal buyer for the business due to the overlap in offering and outlook. We look forward to seeing the continued success of Amberol under Leafield’s ownership.”
