A family-run engineering business with more than a century of history is entering a new chapter after a successful sale supported by Swindon-based corporate finance specialists, Watersheds.
WH Shoebridge & Sons Ltd, founded in 1919, has been owned and run by the same family for 107 years. Operating across the East Midlands from sites in Northampton, Wisbech and Peterborough, the company specialises in the sale and repair of electric motors, geared units and associated products and spares.
Now under third-generation ownership, managing director Robert Shoebridge decided it was time to secure the long-term future of the business as he prepares for retirement. He appointed Watersheds to oversee the process, drawing on a relationship that stretches back more than two decades.
Watersheds has advised the business since 2002, when it supported the acquisition of Britannia Engineering, and has continued to work alongside the company through periods of growth, acquisitions and disposals.
The sale was led by James Owen, Partner at Watersheds, who set out to identify buyers that would protect the firm’s values, reputation and long-standing relationships with staff and customers.
Following a confidential process, the business was acquired by Boardley & Roberts, a regional firm serving East Anglia with a closely aligned specialism. The directors at Boardley & Roberts had been seeking to expand their capability and scale in order to compete more effectively with national operators, while maintaining the responsiveness and personal service associated with a family-owned company.
By bringing WH Shoebridge & Sons into the group, they were able to achieve those ambitions while safeguarding the heritage and standing of the Shoebridge name.
James Owen said the transaction required a careful and considered approach.
“Selling a family business is always a sensitive process, particularly one with such a strong legacy and reputation for punching above its weight,” he said. “It was vital to find a buyer who truly understood the value of that history and could provide reassurance to both staff and the company’s blue-chip customer base.
“We worked closely and face-to-face with Robert to understand exactly what he wanted from a buyer, then carried out an extensive but discreet search within a close-knit industry to find the right fit.
“Being trusted to lead the sale of the family’s main business, built on three generations of dedication and expertise, was a real privilege. Robert knew from our previous work together that we would stay focused on his priorities and keep going until the right buyer was found.”
Robert Shoebridge said the support from Watersheds had been central to achieving the outcome he hoped for.
“This is the third time I’ve worked with Watersheds and I would happily do so again in the future, should the opportunity arise,” he said. “I’m delighted they’ve played such an important role in this journey and in securing the future of the business.”
DFA Law and Gravita also advised on the transaction.
Watersheds is a specialist corporate finance firm that supports clients with buying and selling private companies and raising investment. More information can be found at www.watersheds.ltd.uk.
