£48m turnover public health veterinary services firm is acquired

Leeds-based Eville & Jones (E&J), a provider of public health veterinary services, has been acquired by Phenna Group, a family of businesses providing testing, inspection, certification and compliance services.

In its financial year to 30 April 2023 E&J Group revenues were about £48m and rising, and by headcount the business represents Phenna Group’s largest deal to date.

The addition of E&J’s team to the existing Phenna group workforce creates a UK-wide team of experts which will enable the business to leverage into new, complementary services as it continues on its growth trajectory.

Parsons Chartered Accountants supported the management team at E&J to nurture resilient growth in preparation for acquisition.

It also supported the marketing of the business to source an ideal buyer and advised on the corporate finance intricacies of the deal.

Rob Jones, chairman of E&J, said: “I’m extremely proud of what we’ve accomplished over the past 30 years; the time is right for me to step out and I wish the business well, confident that it is in the best possible hands for a bright future.

“Parsons have guided us through the complexities and challenges of the transaction with cool and reliable expertise.

“They have been ever-present throughout, responsive to our requirements and consistently demonstrated a high level of experience and technical competence.”

Ian Parsons, managing partner and head of corporate finance at Parsons, added: “We’ve worked with E&J since 2018 and have a high regard for its management team.

“It’s been a pleasure to witness the business flourish under their care and see such a successful outcome to our hard work. We wish their new team all the best for the future.”

Phenna Group was advised by Avonhurst and RSM. As well as Parsons Chartered Accountants, Eville & Jones was advised by Blacks Solicitors and Claritas Tax.

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