Watersheds first met owner Paul Whittington, back in 2017 when he was considering the sale of his business but had a price expectation which he wasn’t convinced could be achieved.
Watersheds worked with Paul over the next few years. By 2021, Oxford Fencing Supplies could demonstrate strong, consistent, and sustainable growth, even through the pandemic and together, Paul and Watersheds decided it was the right time to sell the business.
Lawsons, which has an annual turnover of £156m has acquired Oxford Fencing Supplies, known for its strong brand in the industry, as part of a strategy to strengthen its presence in Oxfordshire, and expand its capacity as a fencing supplier.
Within four weeks of going to market, Watersheds brought Paul multiple offers from a range of different buyers, including national and international trade buyers, and investment companies. All of the offers received considerably exceeded Paul’s expectations.
“The offers were all of a decent value and structure, but in the end, I selected Lawsons because I had a good rapport with their team and felt confident they would take the best care of my business and its people, going forward,” said Paul.
“Many of my staff have been with the company for years, and it’s important to me they are looked after. The ethos and culture of Lawsons is very similar to my own, being a family business run by its third generation, so I am very happy Oxford Fencing Supplies will fit in with its new owner.
“Watersheds have been fantastic partners for me and have worked hard to advise and guide me on how to get my business ready for sale, and introduce me to a high number of potential buyers, all of whom were willing and able to make very strong offers. Because of their experience, judgement and contacts, I can rest assured Oxford Fencing Supplies has a very bright future indeed.”
Wendy Lam, a partner with Watersheds, said:
“Like many owners, Paul realised the best succession planning tends to start years before a sale takes place. He took our advice to work hard and get the business into great shape, in order to achieve his expectations.
“It is very common for owners who have built up a company from scratch to be keen to make sure their employees can enjoy a secure future. We understand those employees who have been so loyal have contributed to the business’s success.
“Securing a great deal in terms of finance and structure for our clients and their company going forward is important. We were glad to bring Paul so many strong offers, from such different parties. It has been a pleasure to see Paul achieve all of his goals by selling to Lawsons.”