(L-R) Managing director Keith McMurtrie, technical director Antony Lord and sales director Lee Ward
Managing director Keith McMurtrie, technical director Antony Lord and sales director Lee Ward are behind a management buy-out at MIS provider Tharstern that will give the company ‘an even stronger platform for rapid growth’.
The MBO is supported by a combined debt and equity package from Mobeus Equity Partners. Tharstern has been a family-owned business since it was established 30 years ago, but the MBO team has acquired a significant ownership stake in the business and will retain direct day-to-day running of the business in their current roles.
Mr McMurtrie said: ‘This is fantastic news for Tharstern and our loyal staff and customers, many of whom have been with the company for many years and who are vital to our continued success going forwards. The deal will provide security and continuity, and ensures that Tharstern retains its brand and identity as a recognised world leader within the printing and allied industries.’
He added: ‘This move retains our independence and gives us even greater confidence for the future. It also gives us an even stronger platform for rapid growth in what we know is an expanding market. Mobeus has proved itself to be a support investment partner and we will be working together to invest in Tharstern to build our specialist team and continue the development of our market-leading product suite.’
The £4 million turnover business has 550 worldwide installations, and employs 46 people, of whom 30 work from the headquarters at Colne, Lancashire, with the rest field-based.
