Case Studies

Adams Hydraulics and Ham Baker Ltd

Specialist equipment supplier to the water and sewage industries, Adams of York Ltd, founded 120 years ago, was sold by its owner to a major competitor, Ham Baker Ltd, Stoke, for a “substantial but undisclosed sum”.

The deal was triggered after Richard Wood, chairman of Adams of York and sole shareholder, decided to sell his interests in the Adams Group which he had held for more than 18 years.

He was advised by York-based accountants and business advisers JWPCreers and lawyers Blacks, of Leeds.

Ham Baker Ltd is now merging its operations nationally with Adams Hydraulics, the operational division of Adams of York Ltd.

Stewart Bailie, new managing director of Adams Hydraulics, who was appointed by Ham Baker, said: “Both Ham Baker and Adams Hydraulics have a strong presence in the industry with many of the world’s largest water and waste-water companies among our customers.

“Although Ham Baker has grown organically, we also have a strong tradition of driving the business forward through mergers and acquisitions. The latest, Adams Hydraulics, is a natural fit due to its vast experience and we look forward to working with its team”.

Tony Farmer, corporate finance partner at JWPCreers, said: “This significant sale is good news for York as it protects skilled manufacturing jobs.

“Both Adams Hydraulics and Ham Baker Ltd are highly regarded in their field. The sale helps Ham Baker by giving it access to vital facilities in the north, an experienced workforce, the specialised GRP division and in-house design facility which will be of substantial benefit as it continues to grow”.

To find out more about how we can help you, please contact JWPCreers LLP in Selby and York.

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