Freeths advises Leafield Environmental on Amberol acquisition

Freeths LLP has advised its new client, Leafield Environmental Limited ('Leafield'), on its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Amberol Limited ('Amberol').

Amberol is renowned for manufacturing self-watering planters and street furniture, and this transaction has brought together a talented team with more than 80 years' experience in manufacturing sustainable plastic products.

The manufacturer works with a range of organisations including local authorities, community gardening groups, businesses, and educational establishments. Amberol developed the Aquafeed™ matting system in the 1970s, which is used in its range of self-watering planters. The planters need topping up just once or twice a week, therefore saving on water and maintenance. The company also develops a range of recycling and non-recycling litter bins, as well as benches and picnic tables.As one of the UK's leading manufacturers of rotationally moulded litter and recycling bins, Leafield was actively looking at complementary acquisitions, and Amberol's range and ethos was a perfect fit for Leafield's growth plans.Freeths' transaction team was led by Corporate Director Ateeq Ahmed, with support from Tax Partner Adrian Hackett, Managing Associate Mohammed Abbas and Legal Assistant Lasharna Barnett.Commenting on the deal, Ateeq Ahmed said: “It's always interesting and exciting working with a new client, and the vast experience of Leafield's senior management team and stakeholders was invaluable. We knew Amberol's shareholders were keen to find the right home for their business and that Leafield recognised the potential value that Amberol could add to its existing offering, so this helped to foster a collaborative approach between the parties to get the deal over the line. We are very pleased to have advised Leafield on this acquisition and we are looking forward to developing our relationship with the business as it continues to pursue its growth plans.”

Phil Maddox, Managing Director, Leafield, added: “The Freeths team was clear from initial contact to final conclusion of the project, with excellent teamwork throughout and a reasonable concluding fee to end the process.”

This comes just weeks after Ateeq Ahmed advised builders' merchant EH Smith Holdings on the acquisition of Builders' Supply Stores (Coventry) Limited.