Decorating supplies group Rabart Decorators Merchants has further expanded through acquisition.
The family-run business, based in Merthyr, which has 10 trade and commercial sales centres across south Wales and the south west of England, has acquired Stroud-based Bailey Paint, the latest addition to the growing business following the opening of its Warminster branch in November last year.
The value of the acquisition, for which law firm Ince advised Rabart Decorators, has not been disclosed.
Bailey Paints has been established for more than 120 years, with owner Richard Townsend running the business since 1989. He will continue to work alongside the new owners as the group’s production manager.
Alan and Stuart Bush, owners of Rabart Decorators Merchants, said: “We are always looking to expand and grow the business. When the opportunity arose to purchase Bailey Paints we were very excited to go for it due to its prime location, the team’s expertise in industrial paints, and their ability to manufacture paint on site.
“We are really looking forward to working alongside Richard Townsend and the highly skilled workforce at Bailey Paints, and we are confident that the group as a whole will benefit from the team’s specialist skills and knowledge.
“Our priority is to maintain the high level of customer service to decorators, contractors and retail customers in the Stroud area that Bailey Paints have serviced for many years. We are also excited to expand our product lines and introduce industrial coatings, as well as work closely with Richard and our chemist to develop products of our own.”
Mr Townsend said:“I am delighted to sell the business to fellow decorator merchants who truly value the skills and expertise we have built up over the years. The team are excited to become part of the Rabart Group and we are looking forward to growing and developing our already successful business. We are confident that all of our customers will benefit from the transaction and we are excited to see what the future holds.”
The Ince team was led by Theresa Grech, partner and head of corporate (Cardiff) with Simon Morgan, commercial property partner (Cardiff), and David Baynton, partner and head of employment (Bristol). Accountancy and tax advice was provided by Azets. WSP Solicitors acted for Bailey Paints.
Ms Grech said: “Rabart Decorators Merchants are long-standing clients at Ince and it was a pleasure to work with Alan, Stuart and the family on their latest acquisition. During the pandemic they have managed to open a new location and complete a complex transaction – which is no mean feat. I wish them the very best of luck for the future and with their exciting plans for the business.”
