Investment firm swoops for shower manufacturer
Investment firm TGM has acquired specialist shower cubicle manufacturer Taplanes, based in Harrogate.
Established in 1979, Taplanes designs and manufactures a range of prefabricated low maintenance shower cubicles and bathroom pods, which are increasingly in demand across universities, housing associations, hotels, and defence facilities.
The company is run by twins Andrew and John Wilkinson following a 1998 management buyout.
TGM said it was attracted by Taplanes’ patented product range and strong order pipeline.
TGM director Jon Frewin said: “Andy and John have built Taplanes into a great business with excellent growth prospects, and we think we can help accelerate that growth with our skills and contacts. In addition to organic growth, we will be looking for further add-on acquisitions to help Taplanes build market share and grow its export channel.
John Wilkinson added: “Taplanes has been doing very well, but as we both reach retirement age, we wanted to find a new partner to take the business to the next level. There are a lot of new opportunities to develop, and we are both delighted to be leaving Taplanes in capable hands.”
Taplanes was advised by business sale advisor BCMS with legal advice from Continuum Corporate Lawyers. TGM was advised by an in-house team.
BCMS lead advisor Ilan Elfassy said: “Taplanes’ patented products and strong growth prospects proved attractive to a number of potential buyers, but TGM’s team brought some fresh ideas on how to develop this business, which provided a great impetus for both parties to complete the deal. We are delighted to have helped get this over the line, and we look forward to watching the next stage of Taplanes’ growth.”
