Outback plans growth after Chinese takeover

A MIDLAND manufacturer is planning for growth following its takeover by a Chinese venture. Hereford based barbeque business Outback has been acquired by China-based TPA after showing an 18% year-on-year sales increase during 2010.

The undisclosed deal also includes a new distribution agreement with Coventry partners Unipart Leisure and Marine.

TPA, with 1,200 employees and an $80m turnover, is a leading global manufacturer in the liquid petroleum gas (LPG) industry for domestic and commercial appliances, counting among its customers Calor, Shell and BP.

Victor Lin, TPA chief executive, said: “We have had a successful and long-standing relationship in working alongside Outback from original design to final barbeque shipment, and look forward to developing a business that has a proven track record for growth among UK customers.”

Outback was started in 1979 and was run by founder Eric Hopper’s daughter Julie Channer, who sold her remaining shares  after a financial deal was offered by long-standing manufacturer and majority shareholder TPA Metals and Machinery (Shenzhen) Ltd. 

Mark Osborne, Outback chief executive, said: “Julie and her co-directors decided the time was right to sell the business after many years as establishing it as a first-choice brand among consumers buying from garden centres, major DIY outlets and supermarkets. It’s all change for 2011, with new products and new offices and distribution based at Coventry.

“TPA, which has a leading worldwide reputation and market for its barbeques, key gas and valve regulators, cylinders, heaters and camper appliances, is a natural partner to ensure a bright future for the Outback brand.

“With sales increasing, and a greater number of consumers seeing the lifestyle and household economy benefits of lighting-up an Outback barbeque, we plan to add even more marketing trade value to the brand in the year ahead.”