Kitchequip bought by acquisitive group

A Burscough-based kitchen equipment supplier has been acquired by a growth-hungry group.

The Kitchen Equipment Company, which trades as Kitchequip, was established in 1993 and has grown to become one of the UK’s largest independent national commercial catering equipment distributors, offering bespoke design and fit of commercial kitchen solutions.

The company’s client base spans many sectors including restaurants, hotels, schools, hospitals, universities, football stadia, colleges, cafes, care homes and garden centres. Some of its most well-known clients include a number of premier league clubs, the NHS and the Alchemist.

Kitchequip has now been acquired for an undisclosed sum by London-based Aureus Acquisitions, a boutique mergers and acquisitions firm which focuses on acquiring SMEs in a variety of sectors.

The deal will see vendor Darren Hall remain in the company in his new role as managing director, whilst shareholder, Iain Moir, plans to retire.

Iain said: "Having met with multiple interested parties we knew from our first contact with Aureus that they were very likely to be the favoured bidder. We are very proud of what we, and the superb Kitchequip team have achieved in developing a tremendous platform for Aureus to build from."

Darren added: “I am looking forward to taking over the reins from Iain, who made the company what it is today and wish him all the best for his well-deserved retirement.”

Ryan Bilsborough, corporate finance manager at PM+M, worked closely with Kitchequip’s shareholders from the outset and led the deal to a successful completion. Jane Parry, head of tax at PM+M, provided full tax support whilst Ross Uttley, assistant manager in the accounting team, delivered accountancy and due diligence support services.

Brabners provided legal advice to the shareholders of Kitchequip.