New era for Ascot Doors after DORMA sale

ASCOT Doors, the £15m turnover manufacturer and installer of doors and shutters to the retail, industrial and commercial sectors, has been sold to German group DORMA.

The Bolton company, which has 225 staff based acrosss 11 national depots, was owned by its founders, managing director Andy Ashworth and contracts director Derek Bridge.  Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The company, whose installations include Manchester United’s Old Trafford Stadium, was founded in 1983. It has become part of DORMA UK Ltd, part of DORMA which has operations in more than 50 countries and employs 7,000 worldwide with sales in excess of €1bn.

Andrew Ashworth, Managing Director of Ascot Doors Ltd, said: “The acquisition provides an excellent opportunity to carry on the Ascot legacy in a manner that enhances growth as well as securing the long term future of our employees. We are thrilled to join the DORMA Group”.

Alan Blower, MD of Hertforshire-based DORMA UK added: “Ascot Doors and DORMA are an excellent fit of two long-standing family businesses that produce quality products and place the customer experience central to everything they do.”

Ascot Doors was advised by a team from BDO in Manchester led by M&A partner Ruth Percival assisted by Kieran Lawton, James Gregson and Tom Wildig.

Ruth Percival said: “Approximately 70% of the deals we’re working on involve global companies, with overseas buyers knocking on the doors of well performing North West-based businesses, particularly in the manufacturing sector.

 “Overseas investors and corporates are looking to increase market share by acquisitions, whilst at the same time tapping into our region’s expertise, supply chains and technology.  The deal between Ascot Doors and DORMA is a prime example of this, and a great strategic fit that solidifies the group’s growth ambitions.”

North West law firm Brabners advised the vendors while Dow Schofield Watts and Hill Dickinson advised DORMA UK.