Provider Cash & Carry bought by Manchester firm

Blackburn-based Provider Cash & Carry Ltd has been sold to Supreme Ltd for an undisclosed sum.

Provider primarily supplies discount retailers, wholesalers and convenience stores, though export sales having become a more prominent part of the business in recent years.

Supreme is based in Trafford Park, Manchester, and is a distributor of battery and lighting as well as specialisinh in e-cigarettes and vaping.

The founding shareholders, Andrew and Carol Cockburn, said: “Growing and developing Provider has been our lives for the past 30 years and we knew that now was the right time to pursue other business opportunities. It’s a big step for us but we are happy that Supreme has a vision for the firm that will see it expand over the long-term.”

Jim Akrill, corporate finance partner at PM+M, advised Andrew and Carol on key elements of the transaction including sourcing the buyers and on all corporate finance advice matters.

A team from Napthens’ East Lancashire office, led by Richard Robinson, advised on legal matters. The deal was funded internally by Supreme.

• For further Lancashire business news, advice and analysis subscribe to Lancashire Business View or join the LBV Hub from just £2.50 per month. Click here to subscribe now.