Investment taps turned on as PE firm swoops for bathroom products business

Barwick Bathroom Distribution, a Bradford-based distributor of premium bathroom products, has been acquired by private equity investor TPA Capital.

TPA Capital acquired the business from the original founders, John and Michael Barwick.

The deal comes on the back of significant growth for Barwick Bathroom Distribution in recent years, underpinned by a buoyant market for home improvements.

TPA’s investment will support the business as it continues to grow through expansion into new geographies as well as increased penetration in existing markets.

The investor says it will support the Barwick team – led by CEO Gary Campbell – in building on John and Michael’s legacy, using its own experience of pumping money into adjacent sectors and supporting transitions from private ownership.

RSM and Squire Patton Boggs acted on the transaction.

RSM’s corporate finance partner Steve Hubbard and associate director, James Atkinson, advised Barwick Bathroom Distribution on the sale.

Paul Mann, Louise Parker, Josh Headley and Patrick Ford from Squire Patton Boggs provided TPA with legal and tax structuring advice. Debt advisory services were provided by RSM’s debt advisory partner Gregory Morton.

Hubbard said: “I am confident that with its quality management team, market position and the strategic advice from its new investor, Barwick will continue to develop and grow.”

Mann, partner and European head of private equity at Squire Patton Boggs, said: “We are pleased to have played a part in a transaction supporting a strong Yorkshire business as it looks to the future.

“With the investment from TPA Capital, Barwick will be in a good position to continue developing its existing business, whilst taking the opportunity to expand into new markets.”

Campbell added: “We are excited to be partnering with TPA on the next stage of our growth journey.

“TPA’s investment allows us to remain an independent distributor with a reputable brand that will continue going from strength to strength.”

KPMG’s Financial & Tax due diligence team led by Richard Dwight and Gareth Wainwright; and PMSI’s Commercial due diligence team led by Gareth Elliott also advised TRA.

Ward Hadaway’s Adrian Ballam,  Jonathan Pollard and Olivia Brown provided legal advice to Barwick Bathroom Distribution.