Case Studies

William Thompson (York) Ltd

One of the region’s oldest and largest animal feed producers, based in York, has been acquired by its management team.

The five-strong management team at William Thompson (York) Ltd, of Murton, has bought the 81-year-old family business by acquiring shares from two of its former chairmen and major shareholders for an undisclosed sum.

The £15 million turnover company, which has 47 staff, provides a wide range of diary, pig, beef, sheep, game and fish feed compounds to farmers throughout Yorkshire and the north-east.

Tony Farmer, corporate finance partner at accountants and business advisers JWPCreers, led and structured the deal and Philip Lewis-Ogden, head of corporate department of lawyers Harrowells LLP, advised the management team.

The acquisition was the culmination of a carefully-planned succession strategy, following a management and company restructure five years ago.

It prepared for an exit by David Thompson, son of the founder, William Thompson; his nephew and former chairman, Mike Bainbridge; plus two of Mr. Bainbridge’s sisters, Ann Clark and Christine Clarke.

Leading the buyout was managing director, John Richardson, 42, who joined 20 years ago as raw materials manager. Mr. Richardson said: “This has been a carefully-planned transfer which evolved over a number of years. It rewards the former owners for their hard work in building up the business, and hands over control to a highly-experienced team.

“This is a good deal for our staff, customers and suppliers. As we have worked for the business for more than 20 years, we have the in-depth knowledge of the industry, products and our customers’ requirements to succeed in this market place.

“Our independence remains intact and we will continue to offer our high-quality products and service.

“We have sensible and sustainable growth plans, but the underlying message all round is that it is business as usual, providing performance feeds with a strong nutritional base and high degree of customer service. We are very pleased with what JWPCreers achieved for us.”

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

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