West Bridgford ribbon manufacturer ties up deal to buy counterpart

An East Midlands ribbon manufacturer and printer has been sold.

Northamptonshire-based Signature Ribbon Company has been snapped up by Cole Fabrics of West Bridgford.

Signature Ribbon was founded by Philip Clarke and Rosalie Clarke in 2001. The family’s involvement with the business has grown alongside its expansion into a market leading ribbon manufacturer and printer, with Nick and Mike Clarke being active owner-management roles in recent years.

The company now has manufacturing and printing facilities in the UK and Far East and supplies ribbon to both local and national retailers.

Owner and director Nick Clarke said: “Signature Ribbon has been a huge part of my family’s life and we are delighted to see a return on the time and effort we have put into the business. Signature Ribbon has responded excellently to the challenges of Brexit and COVID-19 and Cole Fabrics felt like the right fit to take the business further.”

Howes Percival advised on the deal. The team was led by Gerald Couldrake and Matt Mayes (corporate) and supported by Simon deMaid (employment), Frank Owens (property) and Sam Moore (tax).

Couldrake said: “We have a long-standing relationship with Signature Ribbon and we were delighted to act on the sale of the business. Signature Ribbon is well placed to expand and prosper under the ownership of Cole Fabrics.

“I have enjoyed an excellent business relationship with Philip and Rosalie and wish them well in their retirement.”

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