INDUSTRY
Founded in 1980, Exmoor Ales was a leading alcoholic beverage company, possessing 300 independent outlets as well an enviable client list of pub chains and breweries.
Owner Peter Turner had skilfully positioned Exmoor Ales to become one of the first “microbreweries” in the UK. After 18 years of managing the company he decided to move into semi-retirement. He instructed Avondale to market the business and attract a buyer that could ensure the company’s future growth and success.
Avondale undertook extensive research of the market to identify potential buyers and draw up a target list of acquirers. From here, they solicited expressions of interest from a broad range of investors; these included bidders from related corporate sectors, as well as those from synergistic industries, and a selection of private investors. All were attracted by the growing demand for ‘real taste’, local produce’ and ‘real provenance’ which the trademarked brand names of Exmoor Ales supplied in abundance.
Avondale led the negotiations with the various parties, and a deal with an industry buyer was eventually completed six months after the initial instruction. The final sale value met Mr Turner’s original ambitions, allowing him to enter semi-retirement in a strong financial position. Meanwhile, the buyers of Exmoor Ales have begun to expand the business by harnessing the growing trend for microbreweries in the UK.
“After the successful completion of the sale, I want to thank you for all your hard work in making the sale possible…throughout the process from our initial discussions through to completion, I have been very impressed with the depth of expertise and cogent advice that you delivered. I would be delighted to talk about the excellent service you provide with any potential clients.”
Peter Turner, Director, Exmoor Ales
