INDUSTRY
“Thanks to Avondale for guiding us through the process so smoothly. Their deep expertise, clear communication, and thoughtful approach helped us navigate the complexities of the sale with confidence. We’re excited about this new chapter for the company and are embracing the new roles as we move forward.”
Mike Wilkinson, Steck Depositors
Steck Depositors, established in 2001 in West Sussex, UK, designs automated depositing machines for batter, dough, fillings, and creams. Serving bakeries and food manufacturers, their high-speed, hygienic systems improve efficiency and portion control. Key milestones include the first pizza-sauce depositor in 2008, servo models in 2014, and robotic integration from 2018, with over 60 delta robots currently deployed.
Guided by a strong, team-oriented ethos, Mike, the sole owner, identified employee ownership as the optimal strategy to safeguard the company’s enduring legacy and to appropriately reward its dedicated workforce. Within the specialised sector in which Steck operates – characterised by high demand and limited availability of expertise – employee ownership further supports talent retention and recruitment, customer confidence and stability, growth opportunities, and a vested interest in the company’s future.
The sale was completed at full commercial value, with Avondale overseeing the entire process—from valuation and financing to HMRC clearance, legal structuring, and trustee setup. The Employee Ownership Trust was carefully designed to preserve the company’s values and establish a strong foundation for ongoing growth and success.
Sold to Employee Ownership Trust
