MBO of WDS Components Ltd

Specialist Component supplier, WDS has today announced a Management Buy Out in a deal enabling the business to further develop its position as a major supplier of Standard Parts, Fixturing Systems and Hydraulic Workholding.

Backed by Bank of Scotland Corporate, the transaction strongly positions WDS to accelerate product range development to drive further growth in the Special Purpose Machine build sector.

The Management Buy Out was led by Peter Crowder and Simon Booth who will be joined by Non-Executive Chairman Nick Owen.

Peter Crowder, Managing Director said “WDS has an enviable reputation as a supplier of specialist products that may now be taken to a wider audience. The investment that this deal secures allows the tremendous potential of WDS to be realised.”

Nick Owen, who joins the Board as Non Executive Chairman commented “WDS has an excellent reputation with its customers and partners and has a clear opportunity to build on such strong foundations.”

Commenting on the deal, Ben Stephenson, who led the team at Bank of Scotland Corporate, remarked “It was easy to see the potential of the business and its incumbent management team. We have been impressed by the team's focus and dedication and welcome the opportunity to work together in a long-term partnership in order to maximise WDS's potential"

The business was acquired from the Hasgo Group whose businesses were recently placed into Administration.

The Management Buy Out team was advised by Sterling Corporate Finance LLP with legal advice from Schofield Sweeney.