Acquisition will enable Harrogate firm to continue to develop
Harrogate-based Comms Design,a high-tech design and manufacturing company specialising in electronic products primarily for the rail industry has been acquired by Unipart Group, which already has operations in Doncaster York and a joint venture at the AMRC in Sheffield.
Comms Design complements the Unipart Rail product and service portfolio and will strengthen its growing reputation for innovation and service. With the announcement stating that the acquisition will enable both businesses “to access new markets and continue to develop and expand product ranges in the UK and overseas”.
Following the deal, Paul Clark will remain as managing director at Comms Design, reporting to David McGorman, managing director, technology companies, Unipart Technology Group.
Clark said: “It was extremely important that we found a parent company with the same passion for the market and industry that is an important part of the Comms Design culture and brand.
“Unipart Rail, the rail division of Unipart Group, has a very strong reputation for service and quality amongst rail companies in the UK and internationally. The new relationship as part of Unipart Group provides Comms Design with access to a wide range of skills and opportunities within the rail industry and beyond.”
Unipart chairman and group chief executive John Neill said: “We are all delighted to welcome Comms Design Ltd into our growing portfolio of digital businesses, products and capabilities. It is another important step in continuing Unipart’s digital transformation.
He added: “Unipart has a strong track record of developing small, entrepreneurial companies by providing the help and support to enable them to grow without the constraining corporate procedures of many large organisations that can be seen as stifling, particularly to digital companies.
“The acquisition of Comms Design Ltd provides us with impressive technical skills, products and services for the rail industry which complement our Unipart Rail offering from our other businesses such as Park Signalling and Instrumentel. We expect Comms Design Ltd to play a strong role in meeting the needs of current and future customers as an increasing number of companies accelerate their plans to implement digital products and solutions.”
Comms Design was advised on the transaction by Roger Esler and Paul Herriott at Dow Schofield Watts (corporate finance) and Mike Cantwell and Philippa Webster at 3volution LLP (legal).
Esler commented: “Dr Paul Clark and the team at Comms Design have built market leading expertise in in-cab signalling systems, with products and specialist technology that have fantastic international potential. As part of Unipart, Comms Design will thrive as it captures the synergies available in this substantial, technology-led group. It’s been a pleasure to advise Paul and find the right home for this great Yorkshire business.”
