Rubber firm owners bounce into retirement thanks to Swindon-based financial specialist

By Luke Francis - 24 June 2024

Business
  • Peter Estwick of Kopak and William Senior of Watersheds

    Peter Estwick of Kopak and William Senior of Watersheds

Watersheds has given business owners Peter and Jane Estwick a stress-free retirement with the sale of their business Kopak.

The ciuple say they have found that by using the Swindon-based specialist corporate firm, they could prepare for retirement with the sale of their business.

Originally founded in 1968, Peter Estwick acquired the business in 2002, having worked in the rubber products sector for 25 years previously. 

Over the past 22 years Peter has built the business to be a market leader in the industry, providing natural and synthetic polymers to sectors including automotive, classic automobile, heavy plant machinery, wholesale electrical and van conversion markets.

Whilst planning for their retirement, Peter and Jane approached Watersheds to help them sell the business to a buyer who would recognise the true value of the business and realise the potential of the growing industry.

Peter Estwick said: “Watersheds took much of the stress and anxiety off our shoulders in finding the right buyer to fit with our plans in keeping the business growing in the future whilst providing a synergy with any potential buyer.”

A deal was agreed with Warwickshire-based SJG International Limited.  As suppliers and customers of Kopak, Managing Director Robert James  saw the potential of being able to consolidate the supply chain. 

Existing relationships between buyers and sellers can complicate negotiations, so Watersheds were on hand to act as a middleman, removing much of the demand and stress of selling a business.

William Senior, Partner at Watersheds, explained: “Selling a business can be overwhelming for the owners as there are many parties to deal with. 

"We were able to support and advise Peter and Jane from beginning to end and project manage the accountants and lawyers involved. 

"This allowed them to focus on continuing to run the business successfully.” 

The deal was also supported by Machins for legal advice.  More information on Watersheds can be found at www.watersheds.ltd.uk

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