Ashvin Metals acquires Metro Metals to expand market reach

Ashvin Metals, a leading name in the UK non-ferrous metal industry, has announced the acquisition of Burnley-based Metro Metals. 

The deal marks a significant milestone for the Poulton-le-Fylde-based company, enhancing operational capabilities and expanding its market offerings.

This acquisition, along with other recent purchases, now positions Ashvin Metals as a £130 million turnover business as the company continues to solidify its reputation as one of the UK’s most dynamic players in the recycling and processing of ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

Founded in 1958, Metro Metals has long been a cornerstone in Lancashire’s metal recycling sector, specialising in ferrous scrap processing. 

The acquisition further enables Ashvin Metals to bolster its portfolio with ferrous metal recycling capabilities, expanding production capacity through Metro Metals’ state-of-the-art processing facility.

Iain Swinson, finance director of Ashvin Metals, said: "This acquisition represents a strategic step forward for Ashvin Metals.

"It not only broadens our service offerings to include ferrous metals like steel and iron, but also brings with it a legacy of excellence that Metro Metals has cultivated over decades.

"By combining our expertise, we aim to redefine service standards in the metal recycling industry and provide unmatched value to our customers worldwide."

Metro Metals will continue to operate from the Heasandford Industrial Estate, Burnley, with all staff remaining in the business.

Previous owner, Ross Shekleton, will remain involved during an interim period to advise the new owners as they familiarise themselves with the operations of the business.

Ross said: "This decision is bittersweet for me. Metro Metals has been such a huge part of my life and my family’s history.

"My father started the business over 60 years ago, and it has been a privilege to carry his legacy forward. But, with my own children pursuing other careers, I knew I wouldn’t be passing the business on, so selling felt like the right decision.

"Having worked with Ashvin Metals for many years, I am confident the business is in highly capable hands. Their expertise and vision will ensure that Metro Metals continues to grow and succeed within the larger Ashvin Metals group."

As well as its operations in Poulton-Le-Fylde and Burnley, Ashvin Metals also operates a site in the Midlands, Inglemere Metals in Blackpool, and recently set up Ashvin Can Recycling following the purchase of machinery from Borcan Limited, to process aluminium beverage cans in Padiham. 

With the acquisition of Metro Metals, Ashvin Metals expands its overall workforce to 60 employees, bolstering its reputation as a trusted supplier of high-grade materials to both domestic and international markets.

This move underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable practices and its leadership in the highly regulated metal recycling sector.

The value of the acquisition is undisclosed. The purchaser was supported by a team of leading advisors, including Hill Dickinson (legal and legal DD) and Jones Harris (Tax DD).

The vendors were advised by PM&M, Harrison Drury and Pierce, who each provided expert guidance throughout the transaction.