Manufacturer expands range with acquisition deal
A foam and rubber manufacturer in the West Midlands has acquired another company in the region. Walsall-based Alanto has purchased Ramfoam, one of the UK’s leading polyethylene distributors and fabricators.
Alanto produces a varied range of products for use across numerous sectors: including marine, construction, automotive, and electrical, while Tividale-based Ramfoam manufactures products for use in areas such as aeroplane insulation and swimming devices.
The undisclosed deal will boost the newly expanded group’s annual turnover from £10 million to £20 million and more than double the size of its UK workforce.
The acquisition adds three additional local manufacturing facilities to the business, allowing Alanto to optimise its transport systems and reduce its carbon footprint.
Additionally, it provides the business with a presence in the Middle East, which will act as a key market for future growth.
Kieran McCormack, chief financial officer with Alanto’s Canadian parent company Jacobs & Thompson, said: “This is a transformative acquisition for Alanto, turbocharging the growth of our forward order book, expanding the range of products we offer to our customers and bringing new concepts to our service offering.
“While it is no secret that UK manufacturing is continuing to face supply chain issues and labour shortages, we are determined to set clear targets to maintain our success.”
The buyout deal was facilitated by a £3.8 million loan from Lloyds Bank.
Relationship manager Rob Taylor added: “Building on its heritage as the UK’s manufacturing heartland, the West Midlands is continuing to attract investment from major global players like Jacobs & Thompson, with ambitions to expand their existing footprint in the region – a major boost for the local community.
“This acquisition also ensures the enlarged Alanto business can effectively capitalise on rising demand for its products both here in the UK and in the Middle East while delivering significant value through operational and transport efficiencies.”