Flower power merger creates online retailer

Halifax-based online florist, Prestige Flowers, has merged with Mansfield-based Flowerline, a flower procurement, packing and distribution business.

ThinCats, an alternative finance provider to mid-sized SMEs supported the merger with a significant capital injection. Park Place advised on the deal.

Prestige Flowers was established in 2013. Its partnership with Flowerline has enabled it to provide next day delivery of fresh flowers and gift hampers, distributing over one million bouquets nationwide every year.

Ben Kimball, senior director at ThinCats, said: “Prestige and Flowerline have built an incredible reputation for quality and their commitment to sustainability is evident in the initiatives they support.

“It was a pleasure working with the expert team at Park Place, who were excellent throughout the process.

“We are excited to be part of the Prestige and Flowerline’s journeys and see them going from strength-to-strength.”

Simon Crowther, CEO of Prestige, said: “Prestige Flowers has always been driven by a passion for delivering outstanding quality and service to our customers, upholding the highest ethical standards.

“This merger with Flowerline is a natural step in our growth, strengthening our ability to source, pack, and distribute flowers and gifts with speed and care.

“With the support of ThinCats and the expertise of Park Place, we are excited for this new chapter, well positioned to bring even greater value to our customers and advance our commitment to sustainable business practices.”

Julian Ridgard, CEO of Flowerline, said: “For Flowerline, this merger marks a significant milestone in our long-standing relationship with Prestige Flowers, which has been built over many years of trust, collaboration, and shared success.

“Our journey together has been one of mutual growth and innovation. This merger not only strengthens our position in the market but also aligns with our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

“We look forward to this new chapter as a unified company, continuing to provide exceptional products and services.”

Ben Peacock, partner at Park Place, added: “Prestige and Flowerline are hugely impressive businesses in their own right, and having worked more closely in recent years, a combination of the businesses became compelling for the shareholders.

“Just as importantly the quality and service provided to customers will be further enhanced by the merger as the businesses work together seamlessly.”

A multi-disciplinary team from Squire Patton Boggs including corporate partners David Milne and Paul Mann, corporate director Rebecca Holden and banking partner Tom Telford provided legal advice on the merger and fundraising.

Jon Robinson, of Parisi Tax, provided tax advice. Clarion provided legal advice to Thincats.

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