Family firm joins £120m South East merchant group in acquisition

A family-run firm with offices in Gatwick, Sevenoaks and Godstone has become part of the largest independent builders’ merchant group in the South East.

Godstone-based business Fairalls has been acquired by Cairngorm Capital and joins Parkers Building Supplies and Stamco in forming the newly enlarged group, which has over 500 staff and combined revenues of £120m.

Fairalls, which dates back to 1900, is the latest firm to be acquired by the Cairngorm Capital as part of its plan to expand across the region.

Alex Bayliss, managing director at Cairngorm Capital, explained: “As investors we are actively engaged in the strategy and operational development of our portfolio companies. We have been working hard to find opportunities to scale our building merchant business.

“Like Parkers and Stamco, Fairalls is an excellent company with a strong brand in the independent builders’ merchants market and an outstanding reputation with its customers.

“Geographically this partnership is highly complementary, extending our presence across the South East of England to make our group, the largest independent builders’ merchant in the region. We are delighted to welcome Fairalls to the group.”

The acquisition will see owner Bob Fairall will remain with the business, will continue to trade under the Fairalls brand, until his upcoming retirement, with son Richard staying on.

Bob Fairall, managing director of Fairalls commented: “Having made the decision to retire, it seemed natural timing to find a partner who would ensure Fairalls fulfils its potential and I believe our partnership with Cairngorm Capital and the other group companies will achieve this.

He added: “I am looking forward to facilitating a successful handover of the business to our new partners, who will be working closely with my son, Richard, to pursue new opportunities for innovation and growth, which will benefit our customers and employees, while retaining the company’s core values.”

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