185-year-old animal health firm sold in MBO

(L-R) Richard and Anna Dewey Clarke with Martin Walsh

An East Midlands provider of animal health, equestrian and pet care brands has been sold in a management buy-out for an undisclosed sum.

Battle, Hayward & Bower, which is based in Lincoln, stocks over 12,000 products which it sells to distributors and retailers throughout the UK. It also manufactures and exports to over 40 countries across the world and has a range of own label brands such as Aintree, Battles, Battles Poultry, Companion, Dermoline, Hy, Hydrophane, Lincoln, Super Codlivine and Wendals.

The company was founded in 1832, when it first started manufacturing agricultural products in Lincoln. 185 years later the company has been sold to new management team Richard and Anna Dewey Clarke.

Both Richard and Anna joined the company over ten years ago. The management buyout sees them take over full control of the company from former owner Richard Bowen who has now retired. Richard will continue to act as company managing director and Anna will become commercial director.

Martin Walsh of East Midlands law firm, Sills & Betteridge, advised the pair on the deal. He said: “I was delighted to help Richard and Anna bring about their ambitious plans for the business and now have the ability to take full control of the business and shape its future. I wish them every success.”

Other advisers on the deal included, Paul Simpson from Andrew & Co Solicitors who advised the vendor, and Mark Bradshaw from Streets Chartered Accountants.

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