ATG Access powers up with LDC

VEHICLE barrier manufacturer ATG Access is set to spread its wings and drive growth into more international markets after selling a stake to private equity investor LDC in a deal understood to be worth £21m.

The £16m turnover Haydock company has 70 staff and designer, manufactures and supplies of anti-ram, access control and high security vehicle barrier systems to high profile business and political locations.

Its products have been installed at locations including Horse Guards Parade in London, Heathrow Airport, Changi Airport in Singapore, Doha International Airport, Shanghai Expo Centre, the Malaysian Prime Minister’s office and a wide range of government and infrastructure facilities around the world.

ATG Access, which recorded sales of £16.4m in the year ending April 2012, currently exports to over 40 countries and has secured a number of prominent international contracts.

With the backing of LDC, the company plans to capitalise on the rapid expansion in major infrastructure investment in the Middle and Far East, South America and Africa, as well as demand in the UK and US for both new and retro-fit projects.

The deal will also give it the firepower to make bolt-on acquisitions and invest in significant product development.

Chief executive Glenn Cooper said: “We are a proud British manufacturer that has developed into the leading player in the global high security vehicle barrier systems sector through strong contractor and distributor relationships, as well as best in class products and expertise.

“However, there remains significant opportunity in emerging markets where investment in infrastructure is on the rise.             
                                                                             
“LDC’s investment provides not only the capital to expand, but also additional strategic input and access to its international network, which will lead us into the next stage of our development.”                         

Manchester-based LDC directors Ged Gould and Carl Wormald led the deal. Mr   Gould, who will join the board of ATG Access, commented: “Heightened global security risks have raised awareness and the need for solutions to counter the threat of vehicle-borne attacks.

“ATG Access holds a dominant position in this high-growth sector and has enormous potential to expand in the UK and in new emerging markets.

“We will enable ATG Access and its experienced team to execute its organic growth plan, through strategic and operational advice, as well as supporting selective acquisitions to widen its product portfolio.”

Carl Wormald added: “Following a record 2012 in terms of investment, we remain as committed as ever to supporting the North West’s ambitious management teams, despite the challenging trading environment, to expand their businesses and capitalise on the growth opportunities that the economy presents.”

Addleshaw Goddard (Paul Medlicott) provided legal advice to LDC, while KPMG (Jonathan Boyers) and DLA Piper (Jonathan Watkins) advised ATG’s shareholders and management on the deal.

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