Shapiro launches acquisitions firm B7

A NEW Manchester-based investment company targeting opportunities in the fast-moving consumer goods market, has been launched.

Ben Shapiro, formerly the Northern director of the distressed company investment company Hilco UK and Valco Capital Partners, has teamed up with Richard Shonn, the managing director of retailer supplier and manufacturer 151 Products  to create b7 Ventures.
 
The new business, which is expected to announce its maiden investment in the coming weeks, will initially target acquisitions within the FMCG supply chain, from manufacturing and wholesaling, to retail and ecommerce.
 
Mr Shapiro said: “This new partnership combines my restructuring expertise with the operational resources within 151 Products. We are already reviewing some very real investment opportunities.”

151 Products in based in east Manchester and is a £29m turnover enterprise owned by the Shonn family. Earlier this year Richard Shoon spoke of his aspiration to grow to £100m turnover in the next five years.

The company supplies of branded household, DIY and car care products to a number of retailers, including many discounters.