Harte Companies Limited has completed the management buyout of Hunter Holdings Limited, the parent company of Harte Woodworking Ltd and Harte Shop Equipment Ltd, in a multi-million-pound deal.

Harte, based in Ossett, West Yorkshire, is a leading shopfitting designer and manufacturer with over 50 years of experience in the design and manufacture of shopfitting equipment. The company employs 115 people and operates from a site that includes a 200 sq metre showroom, extensive warehouse space, and manufacturing facilities.

The business offers project management, design, product development and bespoke manufacturing, and has worked with prominent brands and high street retailers including Estee Lauder Companies, Aldi, B&M and Home Bargains. The MBO sees former Commercial Director Fraser Thomson take the helm as Managing Director, alongside Ryan Willis as Commercial Director.

“This is an exciting milestone for myself and for Harte. I’m incredibly proud that the many years of learning, collaboration, and support from exceptional colleagues, customers and suppliers has led us to this MBO. I want to thank the great team I’ve had the privilege to work with, both past and present, and I’m looking forward to the exciting times ahead as we build for the future.” Fraser Thomson, Managing Director of Harte Companies

The transaction was supported by specialists across the corporate, real estate, employment, commercial, tax and litigation teams.

“It is a fantastic story for Fraser, who joined this great Yorkshire business 20 years ago in a junior role and has now completed its acquisition. We are delighted that our multi-disciplinary team was able to support Fraser and his team and look forward to providing ongoing assistance.” Michael Cantwell, Partner in Schofield Sweeney’s Corporate team

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