Calderprint acquires Lancs firm Whitney Woods to become £10m-turnover company

North West printing group Calderprint has acquired Whitney Woods, a printed promotional gift firm based in Lancashire.

Completed for an undisclosed sum, the deal has boosted Calderprint’s turnover to £10m and its workforce to 140 people employed across four facilities.

Further, Whitney Woods has moved its 20-strong team from Rossendale to Calderprint’s HQ in Dunnockshaw, near Burnley.

Earlier this year, Calderprint created 20 jobs after acquiring its existing headquarters in a £932k deal to purchase the buildings and assets of printing firm Hudson & Pearson.

Peter Birbeck, the owner and managing director of Calderprint, was advised by the corporate finance and accountancy divisions of Blackburn-based Pierce Group as he acquired a controlling interest in Whitney Woods from its owner and MD Chris Woods.

Chris founded Whitney Woods in 1992 with his late business partner, Paul Whitney. He has retained minority stake in the company and will remain on-board as a director.

Peter said of the deal: “The team at Pierce has supported me through many years of growth at Calderprint and it was fantastic to have their expert advice for the next stage of the group’s development.

“Whitney Woods’ products are very unique and create a talking point as they produce memorable promotions for businesses. We look forward to taking this innovative product range to Calderprint’s trade customer base.”

He added: “Calderprint and Whitney Woods have been trading partners for 25 years so we have a really strong partnership.”

David Sharpe, the corporate finance director at Pierce, commented: “Calderprint is a forward-looking company which always seizes the moment when it comes to new business opportunities.

“We are delighted to have played a key role in securing the next stage in Calderprint’s expansion and look forward to supporting them in the future.”

Whitney Woods’ former owner Chris said: “I started Whitney Woods 25 years ago and recently retirement has been at the back of my mind.

“I wanted to sell the business that I worked so hard to create to the right company.”

He continued: “Becoming part of the Calderprint Group is fantastic for Whitney Woods. It will open up exciting new opportunities for our unique product range.”

Blackburn law firm Farleys Solicitors served as legal advisors to Calderprint during the deal.

Debbie King, a partner at Farleys, commented: “Calderprint has enjoyed strong and sustainable growth over the years and the acquisition of Whitney Woods is a fantastic addition to the business.

“Peter and the management team have a clear plan for further business growth and we wish them every success for the future.”

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