Clarke Willmott facilitates smooth MBO for Total Merchandise

National law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has successfully guided the Management Buy Out (MBO) at Total Merchandise, a renowned promotional merchandise business headquartered in Colchester, Essex. The deal, facilitated by Clarke Willmott, marks a significant milestone for Total Merchandise, positioning it for future growth and leadership changes.

Established in 2004, Total Merchandise Ltd. has evolved into one of the UK's premier suppliers of promotional products and branded merchandise, boasting an extensive portfolio of over 10,000 product lines. The MBO, a strategic move, will lead to the retirement of two of the founder directors and pave the way for the business's continued expansion under the stewardship of Managing Director Jason O’Connor.

The legal team at Clarke Willmott played a crucial role in orchestrating the MBO. Corporate partner Richard Swain led the team, providing comprehensive advice on all corporate aspects. He was supported by solicitor Bryony Warren, ensuring a thorough legal perspective throughout the transaction. Complementing the corporate team, Bethan Evans, a banking and finance partner, took the lead on financing and funding aspects, contributing to the financial success of the deal.

The collaboration extended beyond legal counsel, with James Cooper (partner), Matt Field (tax director), and Cameron Robertson (executive) from FRP Corporate Finance offering expert advice throughout the corporate finance aspects of the transaction. Lloyds Bank provided crucial support by furnishing a new term debt facility to facilitate the deal.

Jason O’Connor, Managing Director of Total Merchandise, expressed his satisfaction with the process, praising the Clarke Willmott team for their efficiency and guidance. He stated, "Richard, Beth, and Bryony did a fantastic job in making this whole process move at speed, keeping me informed and acting as a guide through previously uncharted waters. I would not hesitate to use them again."