Keighley textile company’s decision to buy Aladdin is genius, says law firm Gordons
Thursday 23rd August 2007
Bradford law firm Gordons has successfully advised Keighley-based textiles manufacturer Hattersley Narrow Fabrics on its acquisition of the business of Aladdin Sales & Marketing, a manufacturer and distributor of kerosene lamps and heaters based in South Wales, from American owners.
Established in 1789, Hattersley Narrow Fabrics is one of the UK’s oldest textiles manufacturers, having originally produced looms and textile machinery. More recently it has been positioned as one of the world’s largest wick manufacturers and leading producers of webbings, braids and bindings for industrial and fashion applications.
The acquisition has brought together two businesses that produce complementary products and it will now trade as Hattersley Aladdin Ltd. The new venture has already begun a programme of new product development to create a range of oil lamps that will appeal to younger style conscious consumers.
Tony Woodyatt, Hattersley Narrow Fabrics’ managing director, said: “Having been sole supplier of wicks to Aladdin for over 50 years we are very familiar with the company, its products and the global demand for them. When the opportunity arose to purchase the business from its American owners we seized it straightaway. Our product range has now nearly doubled and our worldwide customer base has increased considerably.
“Throughout the process we received practical, straightforward advice from Gordons, which helped ensure that the acquisition ran smoothly despite the international nature of the transaction. We are now looking forward to taking Hattersley Aladdin Ltd into the market and securing the future of our historic business.”
Hattersley Aladdin Ltd employs 30 people at its manufacturing and distribution facility in Keighley. Former Aladdin Sales & Marketing managing director Tony Joint has also joined the new venture as financial director, with his input helping to ensure that the new company has been set up with minimal disruption or breaks in the supply chain.
Hattersley Narrow Fabrics produces a vast array of wicks for all types of oil burning appliances, as well as for the lifting of water and other liquids. Non-radioactive incandescent mantles have recently been added to its product range with the webbing and braid side of the business having also added made up belts, straps and harnesses.
Aladdin Sales & Marketing has a long trading history having been founded in 1908. The company immediately built up a worldwide reputation as the leading manufacturer of top quality domestic paraffin heaters and traditional oil lamps, which now have an increased global market.