The acquisitions comprise the Agricultural division of the Armstrong Richardson Group (“AR Group”), the family-owned business that has been serving the rural and agricultural communities in the North East of England since 1925, and the fertiliser manufacturing business and assets (“HGBF”) of HELM Great Britain Limited, part of HELM Group, the German multi-national chemicals company.
The Agricultural division of AR Group supplies a wide range of agricultural inputs for arable and livestock farmers, in particular seed, fertiliser and feed, together with grain trading services. It also owns the Yorkshire Green grass seed brand, known for its speciality seeds. The division's managerial staff, except the family director, will transfer to Wynnstay. The acquisition opens up a new trading area and farming customers for Wynnstay, in line with strategic growth plans.
HGBF is based at the inland Port of Howden, on the River Ouse, near Goole, and produces and wholesales blended fertiliser. Its acquisition increases Wynnstay's blended fertiliser manufacturing capacity and extends the Group's geographic reach in the South Yorkshire region. The HGBF team will benefit from strong synergies with the Group's existing fertiliser blending and trading activities at Glasson.
Gareth Davies, Chief Executive Officer of Wynnstay Group plc, commented:
“These are highly complementary acquisitions, which expand our presence on the eastern side of the country, and add modern blended-fertiliser production facilities. They bring new customers to the Group and staff with significant experience and local knowledge. We are delighted to welcome them to Wynnstay, and look forward to working with them to develop the opportunities ahead.”