Huddersfield entrepreneur makes pressing acquisition

JOHN Corby, the world famous supplier of trouser presses and other equipment, has been bought by Yorkshire businessman and entrepreneur Richard Kaye.

Mr Kaye, who heads up Huddersfield-based Fired Up Group, has acquired the iconic brand for an undisclosed sum.

John Corby, which is part of Jourdan, achieved a turnover of £3.5m in 2008 from sales of its hospitality amenity products sold in more than 50 countries worldwide.

Commenting on the acquisition Mr Kaye said: “The Corby brand is well known and respected throughout hotel and hospitality markets, sectors we plan to expand into in coming years.

“We see synergies with our existing range of heating and cooling equipment including fires and fireplaces, radiators and wine coolers sold through many leading high street outlets such as B&Q, Argos, Home base and Littlewoods.”

The Fired Up Group has a turnover in excess of £10m and is reported as having ambitious plans for future growth in all operational sectors.