Investors swoop for Doncaster fire door company

A Yorkshire-based manufacturer of timber fire and security doors has been acquired by London investor Cairngorm Capital.

Sentry Doors operates from a 32,000 sq ft facility in Doncaster and makes door-sets for organisations in the social housing, public sector, residential and commercial markets.

With the new investment, the company intends to accelerate growth by expanding its manufacturing capacity and extending its geographical reach.

For Cairngorm, the deal is its first in the fire protection sector and its 18th proprietary transaction since July 2016.

Sentry Doors Holdings Limited was acquired through Cairngorm Capital Partners LLP’s second fund, Cairngorm Capital II.

It resulted from a decision by managing director Gordon Yates and his wife, Carolyn, to step back from the day-to-day running of the business.

Gordon will remain on board in an advisory capacity, while Ty Aziz, the firm’s general manager, will step up to the role of managing director.

Gordon, who founded Sentry Doors in 1989, said: “I’m delighted that Sentry Doors and Cairngorm Capital will be working together, as our sector is on the cusp of considerable change.

“Although I am beginning to think about retirement, it was really important to find the right partner who had the vision and ambition to guide Sentry Doors to fulfil its potential.”

He continued: “I wanted an investor who would be a good custodian of Sentry Doors in the future and who would provide opportunities for our exceptional employees.

“Cairngorm Capital has a really strong track record in accomplishing this so I am confident that Sentry Doors will go from strength to strength.”

Jon Gatfield, operating partner at Cairngorm, has joined Sentry Doors as executive chairman.

He commented: “I’m delighted to be invited to chair a strong business with significant opportunities for transformational growth.

“In particular, I am looking forward to working closely with Ty and the rest of the management team as we build on the great company that Gordon, Carolyn and the team have created.”

Cairngorm Capital investment director Stuart Whiteford led the transaction.

Advisors from PwC, CiL, Addleshaw Goddard, Vail Williams and JLT Group acted for Cairngorm. The Sentry Doors shareholders were advised by BCMS, Smith Craven and Mills & Reeve.