Warehousing and distribution group’s MBO driven by eight-figure funding package

H&M Distribution Group, the Newton-le-Willows-based distribution and warehousing company, has completed a management buyout (MBO) with an eight-figure bespoke funding solution from banking group Shawbrook.

H&M provides UK and international transport facilities from hubs in Warrington, St Neots and Gloucester.

This puts its fleet within 90 minutes of any area in England.

Founded in 2007, the transport and 3PL specialist has grown rapidly to employ more than 150 staff, handling thousands of consignments every day.

The company’s majority shareholders, who will remain in the business, had been preparing for succession for more than four years.

They were focused on rewarding members of the MBO team responsible for consolidating H&M’s success and driving volumes to new levels.

Matt Scott and Hamish Morrison of BHP Corporate Finance introduced H&M to Shawbrook specialists. They were able to offer a bespoke hybrid funding package, including a working capital facility, to support further growth under managing director Dean Woodyer.

The agreement is the latest in a series of flexible funding solutions provided by Shawbrook to facilitate event-based transactions such as MBOs. It continues to work with firms in a broad range of sectors, including haulage and other logistics and distribution areas.

Dean Woodyer said: “We have been preparing for this MBO for nearly five years and wanted a banking partner with experience and sector knowledge. The whole senior leadership team at H&M is looking forward to building on that momentum to drive further growth.”

Matthew Fannon, director at Shawbrook, said: “The management buyout follows several years of significant growth and careful succession planning at H&M.
“We were able to provide the team with a flexible solution made up of structured-term debt alongside a working capital facility. We look forward to seeing the MBO drive further growth and success for H&M.”

H&M was advised on the deal by BHP Corporate Finance and and by Clarion’s corporate team, led by Sarah Harrison, and its banking team, led by Ben Slack. Gordons advised the management team.

Shawbrook was advised by gunnercooke, and financial due diligence was provided by Azets.