Blinds specialist has big plans after completing MBO
Homefair Blinds, which has head offices in Denton, Manchester, and County Durham, has been acquired in a management buy-out led by Steve Ellithorn, Claire Ripley and Shaun Welsh.
The trio acquired the company, for an undisclosed sum, from retiring director, Jonathan Fitton.
The retailer and manufacturer of blinds and shutters is looking to develop and grow its product offerings as the management buyout team has extensive knowledge of the sector and has exciting plans for the growth of the business, in particular, growing its portfolio of North West showrooms.
Steve Ellithorn, sales and customer service director, has been at Homefair Blinds for more than 22 years.
Claire Ripley, finance director, joined the business more than a decade ago following 13 years in accountancy practice, having trained with Ernst & Young earlier in her career.
Shaun Welsh joined the business as operations director in 2017, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and experience having worked in the industry for the UK market leader for more than 25 years.
Founded in 1985 with one showroom, Homefair Blinds has been offering its clients window covering solutions for more than 30 years.
The business currently employs in excess of 180 people across the North West and North East of England regions, in more than 25 showrooms and also two large manufacturing plants in County Durham.
Steve said: “We have a fantastic team and are proud of what we have achieved at Homefair Blinds, which we aim to build upon as owners of the business.
“We have exciting plans for the future as part of our overall vision, including increasing our digital presence and showroom portfolio, particularly in the North West.
Shaun added: “With blind technology continuously developing we will also be extending our product portfolio to offer customers safe cutting-edge window coverings.”
Marie-Louise Bozonet, corporate partner at North East commercial law firm Square One Law who led the advisory team working with the new owners, said: “We were delighted to act for Steve, Claire and Shaun.
“The management buyout is an important succession opportunity for the business and the significant experience in the new management team will set the business in good stead for the future.”
