Flowmax Group https://flowmaxgroup.com/ Fluid Handling Equipment, Spares & Service Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:19:50 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://flowmaxgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/cropped-Flowmax_favicon-32x32.png Flowmax Group https://flowmaxgroup.com/ 32 32 Guiding owner-managers to the right deal https://flowmaxgroup.com/guiding-owner-managers-to-the-right-deal/ Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:19:21 +0000 https://flowmaxgroup.com/?p=7079 By Graham Morrell, CEO, Flowmax Group

In a strong market, it’s easy for the conversation to drift towards valuation. Advisers know the reality is broader. When founders are clear about what they want from the sale process, it shapes not just the number achieved, but the certainty of getting the deal done, the strain on management during the process, and what happens to the business and its people afterwards.

“The right deal” is rarely the highest headline price. It is the best fit across the seller’s personal priorities - tax impact, timing of exit and any post-deal role - as well as deal certainty (for example, the balance of cash versus deferred or performance-linked consideration), the level of control if they remain in the business, and what the deal means for the team and the company’s direction after the founder steps away.

Few founders sell a business more than once, and there are always complexities they haven’t encountered before. That’s where advisers add real value, helping owners define success early, map out what could be options and pressure-test the trade-offs involved. They can cut through the noise by asking what the owner is really optimising for.

If the priority is a clean break and maximum certainty, a trade sale can be the right answer, particularly where there is clear strategic fit. The owner should go in with eyes open about what changes after completion. Integration can be swift, brands can be repositioned or dropped, and duplication is often removed. For some owners that is acceptable, for others it destroys the legacy they hoped to preserve.

If the owner wants to back a high-pace growth chapter and can live with the volatility that sometimes comes with it, external investment can look compelling. Private equity can bring firepower and focus, but it typically comes with a defined value-creation plan and a timetable, something that can be challenging for those who are used to walking their own path. The owner needs to be comfortable with a more formal governance rhythm and the expectation of another transaction. Venture capital is designed for earlier-stage, high-growth models and further funding rounds can lead to significant dilution for the founder. For established SMEs, it is often simply the wrong tool, pushing pace and dilution before the business is set up to absorb it.

If the owner wants to realise value while keeping continuity, the route and the new partner needs to support that intent rather than fight it. That may mean flexibility in structure, such as a phased transition, the option to retain meaningful involvement, and support that reduces risk once the founder steps back.

The practical takeaway is simple. Get some professional support to help define the non-negotiables before kicking off the sale process. What must remain true about the culture? How important is brand autonomy? What role does the owner want over the next two to three years? What is the future for the broader workforce? What investment or payout is required, when, and who will actually deliver it? When those answers are clear, the buyer universe narrows quickly, and the final decision becomes easier to defend.

At Flowmax, we partner with owner-managed businesses that want continuity and opportunity by acquiring majority stakes, helping the founders to realise value while protecting what makes the business strong. We take a long-term view with a family-investor orientation and combine capital with hands-on operating support in marketing, HR, finance and M&A, so the plan is deliverable in the real world. For owners looking to sell, that means an option aligned to legacy, autonomy and sustainable growth, approached with clarity and respect for the owner-manager relationship.

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Guiding owner-managers to the right deal

By Graham Morrell, CEO, Flowmax Group

In a strong market, it’s easy for the conversation to drift towards valuation. Advisers know the reality is broader. When founders are clear about what they want from the sale process, it shapes not just the number achieved, but the certainty of getting the deal done, the strain on management during the process, and what happens to the business and its people afterwards.

“The right deal” is rarely the highest headline price. It is the best fit across the seller’s personal priorities – tax impact, timing of exit and any post-deal role – as well as deal certainty (for example, the balance of cash versus deferred or performance-linked consideration), the level of control if they remain in the business, and what the deal means for the team and the company’s direction after the founder steps away.

Few founders sell a business more than once, and there are always complexities they haven’t encountered before.  That’s where advisers add real value, helping owners define success early, map out what could be options and pressure-test the trade-offs involved. They can cut through the noise by asking what the owner is really optimising for.

If the priority is a clean break and maximum certainty, a trade sale can be the right answer, particularly where there is clear strategic fit. The owner should go in with eyes open about what changes after completion. Integration can be swift, brands can be repositioned or dropped, and duplication is often removed. For some owners that is acceptable, for others it destroys the legacy they hoped to preserve.

If the owner wants to back a high-pace growth chapter and can live with the volatility that sometimes  comes with it, external investment can look compelling. Private equity can bring firepower and focus, but it typically comes with a defined value-creation plan and a timetable, something that can be challenging for those who are used to walking their own path. The owner needs to be comfortable with a more formal governance rhythm and the expectation of another transaction. Venture capital is designed for earlier-stage, high-growth models and further funding rounds can lead to significant dilution for the founder. For established SMEs, it is often simply the wrong tool, pushing pace and dilution before the business is set up to absorb it.

If the owner wants to realise value while keeping continuity, the route and the new partner needs to support that intent rather than fight it. That may mean flexibility in structure, such as a phased transition, the option to retain meaningful involvement, and support that reduces risk once the founder steps back.

The practical takeaway is simple. Get some professional support to help define the non-negotiables before kicking off the sale process. What must remain true about the culture? How important is brand autonomy? What role does the owner want over the next two to three years? What is the future for the broader workforce? What investment or payout is required, when, and who will actually deliver it? When those answers are clear, the buyer universe narrows quickly, and the final decision becomes easier to defend.

At Flowmax, we partner with owner-managed businesses that want continuity and opportunity by acquiring majority stakes, helping the founders to realise value while protecting what makes the business strong. We take a long-term view with a family-investor orientation and combine capital with hands-on operating support in marketing, HR, finance and M&A, so the plan is deliverable in the real world. For owners looking to sell, that means an option aligned to legacy, autonomy and sustainable growth, approached with clarity and respect for the owner-manager relationship.

Selling your business with Flowmax

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]]> Flowmax Group expands into the Middle East with new regional distribution hub https://flowmaxgroup.com/flowmax-group-expands-into-the-middle-east-with-new-regional-distribution-hub/ Thu, 05 Mar 2026 11:14:03 +0000 https://flowmaxgroup.com/?p=7054 Flowmax Group, headquartered in Coventry, has announced the establishment of Flowmax Fluid Control Middle East Trading LLC, marking the Group’s first physical presence in the region. Based in the UAE, the new entity will operate as a regional distribution hub, enabling Flowmax companies to hold local stock and serve customers across the Middle East with improved access and lead times.

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Flowmax Group expands into the Middle East with new regional distribution hub

Flowmax Group, headquartered in Coventry, has announced the establishment of Flowmax Fluid Control Middle East Trading LLC, marking the Group’s first physical presence in the region. Based in the UAE, the new entity will operate as a regional distribution hub, enabling Flowmax companies to hold local stock and serve customers across the Middle East with improved access and lead times.

Flowmax is a specialist fluid technologies operating partner with a focus on value creation. It provides owner-managers with both continuity and opportunity, allowing them to achieve a partial exit, realise value and maintain operational autonomy while investing for growth. Its companies are experts in fluid technologies — a focused approach that enables the Group to truly understand the dynamics of the markets its businesses operate in and how to drive sustainable expansion.

Building a local footprint in the Middle East strengthens Flowmax Group’s portfolio of owner-managed fluid technology businesses and supports their ambitions to expand internationally. The region represents a high-growth opportunity, with the pumps market projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% to £4.6 billion by 2033, and the water-desalination equipment sector expected to reach £13.5 billion by 2033, growing at 10% annually, according to Grand View Research.

Graham Morrell, CEO of Flowmax Group, said: “The Middle East represents a hugely exciting growth region for the Group. Establishing Flowmax Fluid Control Middle East Trading LLC provides a channel for our Group companies to distribute locally and engage more effectively with regional partners and customers, reinforcing our competitive advantage and supporting future growth. It’s also a huge value-add for prospective businesses joining our Group, giving them the ability to participate in one of the fastest-growing markets globally for fluid technologies.

“This is about creating continuity and opportunity — for our people, our customers, and the exceptional owner-managers we partner with. Our new regional distribution hub is the latest step in our journey to create brighter futures across every market we serve.”

The Middle East expansion builds on Flowmax’s proud heritage as a specialist fluid technologies operating partner, supporting a network of owner-managed businesses across the UK and Europe. Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Coventry, the group now operates 15 businesses with combined revenues exceeding £65 million.

Selling your business with Flowmax

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]]> B&D Plastics marks one year with Flowmax as water sector opportunities surge under AMP 8  https://flowmaxgroup.com/bd-plastics-marks-one-year-with-flowmax-as-water-sector-opportunities-surge-under-amp-8/ Sat, 01 Nov 2025 10:32:34 +0000 https://flowmaxgroup.com/?p=7033 B&D Plastics, the Colchester and Aldridge-based specialist in plastic pressure pipework systems, is celebrating its first anniversary as part of Flowmax Group. It is already seeing major opportunities as the water industry’s new five-year investment cycle, Asset Management Period (AMP) 8, gathers momentum.

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]]> B&D Plastics marks one year with Flowmax as water sector opportunities surge under AMP 8 

B&D Plastics, the Colchester and Aldridge-based specialist in plastic pressure pipework systems, is celebrating its first anniversary as part of Flowmax Group. It is already seeing major opportunities as the water industry’s new five-year investment cycle, Asset Management Period (AMP) 8, gathers momentum.

Founded in 1999 in Colchester, B&D Plastics has built a reputation as a trusted partner to the UK’s water treatment and chemical processing sectors. The company, which employs 16 people across its two sites, is now gearing up for growth as part of Flowmax.

B&D Plastics stocks and distributes specialist plastic pipework systems that convey fluids ranging from potable water to highly aggressive chemicals for use in industry and building service sectors. Its major customers include a number of leading tier one mechanical and electrical contractors that work in conjunction with the UK’s water utility companies.

The business is already engaged on multi-million-pound projects and expects activity to accelerate significantly as AMP 8 unlocks investment from the utilities sector. Alongside organic growth, B&D Plastics is also exploring new distribution hubs as well as acquisitions in strategically important markets. Additional hires are planned to support the expansion.

Dave Edge, Managing Director of B&D Plastics, said: “Becoming part of Flowmax has given us the strength and credibility to go after larger contracts that were previously out of reach. We’re still very much running the business day to day, but with the backing of a larger group we have access to capital, expertise and a wider network of opportunities. 

“As we look ahead, I have real confidence in the business, our people and our customers – as we open up a brighter future with Flowmax.”

Graham Morrell, CEO of Flowmax, added: “B&D Plastics has been a fantastic addition to the group, helping us diversify into the water treatment sector at exactly the right time. Under Dave’s leadership the business has performed strongly in our first year together, building on long-standing customer relationships while preparing to capture the opportunities of AMP 8. We look forward to supporting B&D Plastics’ growth journey in the years ahead, which will include our expansion into new markets.”

B&D Plastics’ integration into Flowmax reflects the group’s broader strategy of partnering with exceptional owner-managed businesses in fluid technologies. Founded in 1997, Flowmax now operates 15 businesses across the UK and Europe with combined revenues of £75m.

Selling your business with Flowmax

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]]> Flowmax Announces the acquisition of B&D Plastics Ltd and B&D Plastic (Midlands) Ltd https://flowmaxgroup.com/flowmax-announces-the-acquisition-of-bandd-plastics-ltd/ Mon, 21 Oct 2024 21:25:00 +0000 https://flowmaxgroup.com/?p=6979 Flowmax Ltd has announced its acquisition of B&D Plastics Ltd and B&D Plastic (Midlands) Ltd, marking a significant addition to the Flowmax Group. Established for over twenty-six years, B&D Plastics has built a solid reputation in the the distribution of fluid management and control products.

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]]> Flowmax Ltd has announced its acquisition of B&D Plastics Ltd, marking a significant addition to the Flowmax Group.

Established for over twenty-six years, B&D Plastics has built a solid reputation in the the distribution of fluid management and control products.

This acquisition aligns perfectly with Flowmax’s strategy, as the newly acquired businesses fit within the company’s core range of medium technology products. The move not only enhances Flowmax’s presence but also opens doors to new customer segments, promising continued strong growth and high cash generation.

The owners of B&D Plastics are committed to the business and motivated to drive its growth even further. Their willingness to stay on after the acquisition signals a strong partnership potential. “We are pleased to partner with the Team at B&D Plastics. They have built a great business over the last twenty-six years and trade in segments where we are keen to build our activities,” stated Graham Morrell, Flowmax’s CEO. He expressed enthusiasm for the expertise and passion of the B&D team, highlighting the mutual benefits of this collaboration.

The synergy between B&D Plastics and the Flowmax Group is expected to foster innovative solutions and enhance the offerings to their valued customer base. As both companies embark on this new chapter together, the future looks promising for continued success and market expansion.

B&D plastics team

More information about the company can be found here: https://www.bdplastics.co.uk/

Selling your business with Flowmax

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]]> Flowmax Expands Plumbing and Heating Range with Acquisition of Rob Pond Ltd https://flowmaxgroup.com/flowmax-expands-plumbing-and-heating-range-with-acquisition-of-rob-pond-ltd/ Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:24:00 +0000 https://flowmaxgroup.com/?p=6982 Flowmax Ltd Acquires Rob Pond Ltd, Expanding Offerings in the Plumbing and Heating Sector

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]]> Flowmax is expanding offerings in the Plumbing and Heating Sector, the acquisition of Rob Pond Ltd, an established UK distributor known for its niche and innovative plumbing and heating products.

Founded in 2002, Rob Pond Ltd has over two decades of experience providing high-quality products to merchants and distributors nationwide. This strategic acquisition by Flowmax will allow Rob Pond to increase its product range and market presence, specifically targeting plumbing merchants.

Rob Pond Ltd will remain true to its family-owned roots, with managing director Alex Marshall and the entire team staying on board to continue business operations. The acquisition brings valuable synergies with Flowmax’s existing subsidiary, Anglo Nordic Burner Products, and will add new product lines, including the K-valve series, to Flowmax’s offerings.

Rob Pond, former CEO, expressed his thoughts “This is very exciting for the future of our business and staff, as Flowmax offers so much more potential to develop the product range to take the company to its next level. From small beginnings to now is an emotional time. It is with huge thanks to all our valued customers over the years, and our staff, with Alex Marshall at the helm, that the company is where it is today. I feel we have found the perfect parent company to power us on!”

Flowmax’s Regional Managing Director, Ian McCreeth, shared his perspective on the acquisition: “We are delighted to welcome Rob and his team to the group. Their business is one we have admired from afar for quite some time, and their reputation for bringing innovation to the market is almost unparalleled. I am also thrilled that Alex and his team have chosen to stay with us, helping us strengthen and grow the business over the coming years.”

The acquisition positions Rob Pond Ltd to grow under Flowmax’s guidance, leveraging new resources and market reach to continue its tradition of innovation and excellent service.

More information about the company can be found here: https://robpond.com/

Selling your business with Flowmax

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]]> Flowmax announces sale of VisiLevel https://flowmaxgroup.com/flowmax-announces-sale-of-visilevel/ Thu, 10 Feb 2022 10:22:04 +0000 https://flowmaxgroup.live-website.com/?p=6745 The purchase was made by US fluid handling solutions company OPW who will now manufacture the patented VisiLevel system at its facility in Nieuw-Vennep, the Netherlands.

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]]> Flowmax announces the disposal of its interest in VisiLevel, a fluid gauging system developed by MechTronic, previously part of the Flowmax Group. VisiLevel is ATEX and IECEx approved and accurately identifies tanker contents by measuring the volume, temperature, density and colour showing a complete live audit trail of all product movements.

The purchase was made by US fluid handling solutions company OPW who will now manufacture the patented VisiLevel system at its facility in Nieuw-Vennep, the Netherlands further expanding its fluid transfer product and technology offerings.

Flowmax Group

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]]> Essco acquires YG Prefab https://flowmaxgroup.com/essco-acquires-yg-prefab/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 11:51:39 +0000 https://flowmaxgroup.live-website.com/?p=6739 Essco offers engineered offsite heating, hot water and electrical prefabricated solutions to suit its customer’s technical requirements and budgets with standardised and bespoke designs.

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]]> Flowmax announces the acquisition of YG Prefab by Essco, part of the Flowmax group of companies.

Essco offers engineered offsite heating, hot water and electrical prefabricated solutions to suit its customer’s technical requirements and budgets with standardised and bespoke designs.

Matt Lowe, Commercial Director at Essco comments, “This acquisition allows us to further strengthen the products and support we can give to our heat network and industrial heat recovery customers. Specifically, it allows us to design and build prefabricated plant rooms as well as prefabricated utility cupboards”.

Paul Rees who has joined Essco with YG Prefab said “This a fantastic pairing with the Essco range of energy efficient products”

For more information please contact Paul Rees and the team on 01633 848080 or email paul.rees@esscoprefab.co.uk

Joining the Flowmax Group

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]]> Acquisition of Buckley Industrial Ltd https://flowmaxgroup.com/acquisition-of-buckley-industrial-ltd/ Fri, 15 Jan 2021 00:00:09 +0000 https://flowmaxgroup.live-website.com/?p=6732 Flowmax's acquisition of Buckley industrial means they will retain management and provide continuity for the business, staff and customers.

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]]> What this acquisition will mean for Buckley Ind

Flowmax announced today the acquisition of Buckley Industrial Ltd by the Flowmax Group company Action Sealtite Ltd. Buckley Industrial, based in Wales was established in 1990 and specialises in the manufacture, inspection and testing of flexible hose assemblies for the power generation, chemical, food processing, paper and petrochemical industries throughout the UK, Europe and recently projects in the Far and Middle East.

The acquisition is aligned with Steve Dransfield, the founding owner’s plans for the retirement. For Steve it was vital that his retirement and the associated equity release would still provide stability for Buckley’s employees and continue to support the established customer base.

Buckley industrial will continue to operate as an independent subsidiary of Action Sealtite and will retain its management team and provide continuity for the business, staff and customers. The Action Sealtite product range fits well with the products and services provided by Buckley offering a number of synergistic benefits to both organisations.

More information about the company can be found here: https://www.buckley-industrial.co.uk/

Selling your business with Flowmax

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]]> Green Energy: Flowmax invests in Essco Controls https://flowmaxgroup.com/flowmax-invests-in-essco-controls/ Tue, 01 Dec 2020 10:12:00 +0000 https://demo.casethemes.net/consultio-corporate1/?p=164 Essco is firmly committed to a green energy focus which sits well with Flowmax’s vision to build its up environmentally sound portfolio.

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]]> Investing in Green-Energy-focused Essco Controls Ltd

Flowmax announced today the acquisition of a majority holding in the shares of Southampton based Essco Controls Ltd. Essco Group designs green-energy focused products for the heating, ventilating, air conditioning and process industries with market leading energy efficient products and systems.

This acquisition supported the long term aim of Richard Stammers, Essco’s Managing Director and founding owner to reduce his shareholding whilst continuing to lead the business. Richard wanted to free up some of his equity in the business but wasn’t planning on retiring in the short term being a younger man in his 40’s.

It was important for Richard to be at helm of the business supported by his chosen management team. Flowmax enabled two of Richard’s directors to personally buy-into the business which retains the established senior management team. This also provides continuity for the business and staff as an independent company within the Flowmax group.

Essco is firmly committed to a green energy focus. This sits well with Flowmax’s vision to build its up environmentally sound portfolio. Flowmax sees the acquisition as a positive step towards supporting companies working to reduce energy use, while continuing its focus on fluid control and management products.

More information about the company can be found here: https://esscogroup.co.uk/

More about part and full selling your business with Flowmax

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]]> OLE is acquired by Hytek https://flowmaxgroup.com/hytek-acquires-ole/ Wed, 25 Nov 2020 14:33:00 +0000 https://demo.casethemes.net/consultio-corporate1/?p=166 By using its strong sales and marketing functions Hytek’s vision is to push the OLE product range to a much wider global market.

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]]> Hytek (GB) Ltd acquires OLE (UK)

Flowmax announces the acquisition of OLE based in Chichester by Hytek, who are part of the Flowmax group. OLE manufacture and own the IP for:

  • Tank gauging
  • Level indicators
  • Alarms
  • Web monitoring systems for storage tanks – used for day tanks, bulk tanks, water, oil and fuel supplies.

The acquisition supported Nick Lambourn, the founding owner and Managing Director’s long term plan to reap the rewards of the strong brand he had built from the ground up. This also enables him to take a step back to a semi-retired role. The move now frees him up to focus his energy on the design and development of new innovative products – potentially adding to OLE’s market leading portfolio and providing continuity in product development.

Nick said:

“Hytek was an ideal partner in both having a deep appreciation of my personal objectives but also in being a good fit to launch our products to new and wider markets. The new role strikes the perfect balance of having enough freedom to continue in what I love working on – improving and developing new products but also to design and set my ideal retirement roadmap.”

Hytek, located near Stanstead airport, has been a supplier of fuel equipment and lubrication equipment since 1985 and will incorporate the OLE range into its set of core products. By using its strong sales and marketing functions, Hytek’s vision is to push the OLE product range to a much wider global market.

More information about the company can be found here: http://www.oleuk.com/

Opportunities for Owner Managers

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