We have advised The Airedale Group on its acquisition of Sprint Refrigeration & Catering Ltd, consolidating the UK catering equipment sector by uniting two of the largest players in the market.

The deal is one of the most significant to have taken place in the dealer space for some time as it brings together the number one and number three kitchen house by annual revenue, according to Catering Insight research.

The Airedale Group specialises in the design, installation and maintenance of catering facilities.

This is their second acquisition in 12 months. In April 2022, following their investment from Rubicon Partners, we advised them on their acquisition of Network Catering Engineers. Their growth strategy at the time of the investment was to provide wider benefits to its customers, through enhanced scale and technology. This further successful acquisition demonstrates their high performance and excellent leadership.

“Congratulations to Rob Bywell and The Airedale Group on the acquisition of Sprint.  I’m delighted to have supported  The Airedale Group over many years and their continuous growth is a testament to the strength of the team and their vision. We were by their side to ensure all aspects of the transaction went as smoothly as possible, thanks to our corporate, real estate, employment and commercial services teams” Martin Sweeney, partner, Schofield Sweeney

“With this acquisition, Airedale Group are demonstrating a continued commitment to broadening our offering, and to investing in unique propositions for the hospitality and food service sector. With Sprint’s expertise in high growth sectors such as QSR (quick-service restaurants) and supermarket retail, coupled with Airedale’s resources in areas such as fabrication and our industry-leading pool of engineering talent, we can offer customers solutions that can’t be found elsewhere. Our strategy has been to become the definitive partner to the sector, and this is another huge step forward in that endeavour. We are absolutely delighted that Luke, Ross, and the Sprint team have agreed to join us, and that they are personally taking such a proactive, long-term role in moving our business forward into the future.” Rob Bywell, chief executive, The Airedale Group

“Congratulations! It is excellent to see our long-standing client go from strength to strength and start 2023 with such a promising venture. I am thrilled to have supported the business on the acquisition and to continue to support it in its goal to broaden its offering and take the business to the next level.” Jessica Fielden, associate, Schofield Sweeney

Luke Ryan and Ross Ryan will continue to lead Sprint as part of the group, leveraging the benefits of being part of the broader Airedale family. As an indicator of its commitment, Airedale Group has renewed the lease at Sprint’s offices for another ten years.

“This is a great opportunity to build on everything that has been achieved by the Sprint team. The support and investment available as part of the Airedale Group will help deliver our growth plans and see the business fulfil its potential.” Ross Ryan, director, Sprint

We advised The Airedale Group on:

Corporate – Martin Sweeney, Jessica Fielden and Alex Aitken
Real estate – Oliver Brooke
Employment – Annie Gray
Commercial services – Karen Crutchley and Munoyo Ikomi

We are business advisers, here to help you achieve your growth ambitions. If you would like to speak to a member of the team, get in touch on 0300 124 0406 or at enquiries@schofieldsweeney.co.uk.