Trio of firms bought by acquisitive critical equipment and servicing company

Ripponden-headquartered critical equipment supplier and servicing partner JLA has welcomed another three new businesses into the Group, bringing the total to six in six months.

Stafford-based Astral Fire and Security and Preston-based firms T Jolly Services and Atlas Sterile Services, are the latest companies to have been acquired.

Helen Ashton, chief executive officer at JLA, said: “I am thrilled that Astral Fire and Security, T Jolly Services and Atlas Sterile Services have joined the JLA Group – and they join us at a great time.

“Our unrelenting focus on service and technology to deliver real customer value is revolutionising our industry. With Total Care, we have created a scalable platform that enables us to become the trusted single supply and service partner that UK businesses are crying out for. We’re looking forward to working with all three businesses as we expand further throughout 2020.”

Astral Fire and Security has a strong presence in the fire and security solutions market. It offers everything from the design, installation and maintenance of fire alarm systems, fire doors, signage and extinguishers through to fire risk assessments and training, as well as specialising in security products such as access and entry systems, nurse call systems and CCTV.

T Jolly Services and Atlas Sterile Services provide HVAC maintenance and repair services, as well as compliance testing for cleanrooms.

The existing management teams will continue to run the respective businesses.

Rob Harris, former owner and managing director at Astral, said: “We are delighted to be joining the JLA Group. With experience in tailored, bespoke systems for large multi-national businesses and smaller independents, the fit with JLA felt right.

“This opportunity and investment will allow us to develop our business alongside JLA, while maintaining the fantastic service our customers are used to.”

Commenting on the T Jolly and Atlas deals, former owner Paul Riley said: “The sale of the businesses provides an excellent platform for future growth as an integral part of a large organisation with a broad range of commercial interests, including a fast-growing heating division, focused on a range of planned and reactive maintenance services.”

The deal to acquire T-Jolly Services and Atlas Sterile Services was supported by Adrian Gare and Alex Starling, of specialist business advisory firm FRP.

Gare, partner at FRP, said: “Having developed a group with a combined turnover of more than £7m, this deal represents an excellent opportunity for the shareholders to realise value while securing the interests of their customers via a high-quality trade buyer.

“Despite challenging market conditions, the M&A market remains buoyant and we are delighted to have helped Paul with the sale of the businesses to JLA.”

JLA is currently a partner to more than 25,000 customers, and is continuing to look for complementary businesses within the HVAC and Fire Safety sectors.