News
LDC-backed Stuart Turner acquires Mikrofill Systems
3 Mar 2021
Stuart Turner, the internationally recognised manufacturer of water boosting pumps and systems, has today announced the acquisition of pressurisation and HVAC specialist Mikrofill Systems Ltd (Mikrofill).
The transaction has been supported by follow-on funding provided by Stuart Turner’s private equity backer LDC.
Founded in 1906, Stuart Turner designs and manufactures a comprehensive range of water powering solutions, from domestic pumps to large water boosting systems for commercial and industrial projects.
Leading mid-market private equity firm LDC backed the management buyout of Stuart Turner in 2017 to help the business target further growth in the commercial pumps sector and support international expansion. During its partnership with LDC, the business has now acquired three complementary businesses. The acquisition of Mikrofill follows its purchases of Fluid Water Solutions in 2019 and GAH Heating in October 2018.
Based in Redditch, Worcestershire, pressurisation specialist Mikrofill brings more than 25 years of innovation and experience producing pressurisation units for sealed system control, commercial grade boilers and water heaters. With manufacturing based in Britain, its award-winning technical expertise, outstanding customer service, commitment to energy efficiency and reputation for reliable products have made Mikrofill the “go to” brand for specification in its sector.
Stuart Turner’s acquisition of Mikrofill will significantly expand its range of products and services so that it can provide its customers with the most comprehensive HVAC and water supply solutions across domestic, commercial and industrial sectors.
Following the deal, Mikrofill will continue to operate an as independent entity but as part of Stuart Turner. The transaction also provides an exit for Mikrofill Founders Roger and Pat Cherrington.
Richard Harden, CEO of Stuart Turner, said: “Stuart Turner boasts a long history of engineering excellence and British manufacturing.”
We are constantly exploring opportunities that can further enhance our market leading services. Mikrofill is an established leader in the pressurisation and hot water generation market so this acquisition plays a key role towards our goal of providing a complete heating and water powering solution.”
Roger Cherrington, Founder and Former Chairman, Mikrofill Systems Ltd, added: “After 25 years of dedication, fine tuning our products and building a strong reputation in our market, the time has come to move the company along to the next level. In Stuart Turner we see fantastic opportunities to become part of a bigger picture. I am sure the brand will continue to go from strength to strength and enter new markets. I wish all of the teams involved the greatest success and will be watching with interest.”
Matt Newbold, Investment Director at LDC in the Midlands, added: “We were attracted to Mikrofill because of the innovative approach to delivering best-in-class systems for its customers, sharing the same passion for engineering excellence as Stuart Turner. Its heritage and position within the commercial pressurisation market will help Stuart Turner continue to expand its comprehensive offering to customers in the UK and overseas.”
LDC plays an active role in supporting the buy and build strategies of its portfolio companies, enabling them to build scale and resilience. Two-thirds of its portfolio is currently deploying a buy and build strategy and in 2020 LDC supported 35 bolt-ons across its portfolio.
Banking facilities were provided by Barings. Stuart Turner was advised by Gateley and Orbis.