MBO at Ilkeston sign company

(L-R) Tom Gray, Jon Wood, Kim Bosworth, Steve White, Helen Sallis, Rod Whitehead

Senior managers at Ilkeston-based Sign Systems (UK) have completed a buy out of the business.

Recently under the ownership of Steve White, Sign Systems has been trading for over 25 years and has a client list of household names including Adidas, Caterpillar, Coca Cola, Rightmove, Specsavers and Travelex.

The acquisition, led by Jon Wood and Kim Bosworth of Sign Systems, sees a staged buyout, with White maintaining an ongoing involvement in the business over the next few years.

White, said: “The buyout was all about the people within Sign Systems. I can honestly say I have enjoyed 99% of my working days at Sign Systems; and still do.

“As the managing director, sole owner and in my twilight working years, a management buyout seemed the right way to move the business forward under the management of long term employees. Jon and Kim know the business inside out and offer continuity to our clients; if not improvement.”

Bosworth said: “Moving forward, it is our intention to focus on securing new business and to ensure that good working relationships with our existing customers remain. We are also looking to recruit within our sales team in readiness for Steve’s departure in a few years’ time. I am excited about our new venture, however, Steve will be truly missed by all at Sign Systems.”

Wood added: “The buyout will offer great security for Sign Systems future and I look forward to following in Steve White’s footsteps to take the business forward in a positive way. The company has a strong reputation with our customers and we are excited about building upon this and growing the business further with Steve’s continued support and involvement.”

Helen Sallis and Rod Whitehead of Independent Banking Professionals (IBP) along with Richard Minshall of Minshall Accountants supported the structuring and finance of the transaction.

Tom Gray, corporate partner at Nottingham based Fraser Brown Solicitors acted for the buy-out team, with Austin Moore of Austin Moore & Partners advising the seller on the deal.

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