130-year-old chemical company sold to US firm

THE holding company Walker Brothers Bury has sold its 130-year-old chemical manufacturing subsidiary J and W Whewell to a US-based global operator AFCO C&S for an undisclosed sum.

Bolton-based KBL Solicitors advised Whewells, based in Radcliffe, near Bury,  on the deal.

Purchasers AFCO are the UK subsidiary of Alex C Ferguson, the American chemicals manufacturer and distributor.

AFCO was introduced to J and W Whewell Limited by Anthony Mitchell, managing director of Acquire Business Sales, a specialist broker of small to mid-market company sales who recognised the synergy between the Whewell and AFCO brands.
 
John Walker, former owner of J and W Whewell Limited, said: “After acquiring J and W Whewell in October 2009 and, after nearly seven years of building our brand in the industry, I felt now was the right time to hand over the reins to a new custodian who can continue our good work.

“I am confident that in AFCO we have chosen the ideal partner to continue the Whewells legacy and am genuinely excited for the future of J and W Whewell under its new strategic ownership.

“Whewells’ biggest asset is its loyal staff. Since we acquired Whewells the business has been on an incredible journey and I am immensely proud of what we achieved. These are exciting times for the speciality chemicals industry and I will watch with pride as the business continues to go from strength to strength with AFCO at the helm.”

KBL’s corporate & commercial associate Anneka Traynor along with commercial property solicitor, Gillian Hindle and employment associate, Christine Hart advised on the deal.

Neil Chamberlain of Mosley & Co Chartered Accountants advised the seller on accounting and tax aspects.

Click here to sign up to receive our new South West business news...
Close