Price Bailey advise on sale of Robert Lee Distribution Ltd. to HLD Group

Price Bailey’s Strategic Corporate Finance team is pleased to announce the sale of Robert Lee Distribution Ltd (“Robert Lee”), the UK’s largest independent distributor of bathrooms, showers and plumbing products, to HLD Group (“HLD”), owner of Aquadart Bathrooms Ltd (“Aquadart”), a prominent designer and manufacturer of high-quality bathroom products.

The transaction presents a significant opportunity for Robert Lee and Aquadart to combine their services and strengthen their offering within the bathroom sector through enhanced sourcing and distribution.

Managing Director, Matt Earle, has commented

This is the start of an exciting new chapter for Robert Lee Distribution. This investment will allow the business to further strive, offer improved services and build stronger, long term customer relationships.

Going forward, the merged business will continue to operate from Robert Lee’s head office in Hertfordshire.

Price Bailey’s Strategic Corporate Finance (SCF) team acted as lead advisor to the shareholders of Robert Lee, and Mark Rowntree, who led the transaction for Price Bailey commented

We are thrilled to have advised on a fantastic deal for both businesses. HLDs acquisition of Robert Lee brings a rich history of trading and an expansive network of retail customers. The merger with Aquadart will yield significant synergies throughout the supply chain, offering a broader range of products to an expanded customer base.

In appreciation of Price Bailey’s support, Matt Earle said

I am extremely grateful for the support and advice I received from Price Bailey’s Strategic Corporate Finance team and Tax team. This complex transaction required a range of specialist advisory skills to navigate successfully. Their cohesive approach and effective communication ensured that we overcame the challenges inherent in such deals. Thank you!

Advisors on the deal

The Price Bailey team included Alex Miller, Phil Sharpe and Mark Rowntree (SCF), and Charlotte Page and Richard Grimster (Tax).

JMW Solicitors provided legal support to Robert Lee, with Craig Harrison, Li Ann Chew, Emet Halkin (Corporate), Scott Keown (Real Estate), and Martin Myres Lusty (Banking).

HLD received legal advice from Addleshaw Goddard, and funding for the deal was provided by Secure Trust Bank.