Deal completed for 'well-established' Shrewsbury firm

Accountants Azets advised on the sale of the business  to  Zofre Investments Limited. 

The acquisition will see the company continue under the existing trading names, with Peter Venn at the helm but both David and Peter Wilde still involved in the business.

 AT Wilde & Son Ltd has been offering a full range of plant machines & parts since 1937, with Wildes Plant Hire later being founded in 1964. 

Both family-run, Wildes Plant Hire is a trusted provider of high-quality plant hire and machinery, serving clients across Shropshire and surrounding areas.

 Specialising in a diverse range of heavy machinery and equipment, Wildes supports construction, landscaping, and civil engineering projects of all scales. 

Mr  Venn, Managing Director of Zofre Investments Limited, said: “When I first looked at the Wildes’ business, I didn’t realise how well-established and well-known they were. 

"I’m delighted to have been able to complete the purchase of both the plant hire and plant parts sides of the business and to have the opportunity to join this excellent team, working closely with David and Peter.”

Exiting Director Ian Wilde of Wilde Plant Hire said: “I’m delighted that we’re handing over the business to Peter, who will continue to successfully run it as his own, in the way that we as a family have over three generations. 

"Having worked with Azets’ for many years, it was refreshing to know that their corporate finance, compliance and tax teams ensured the deal was a seamless transaction, which has been imperative to allow for business as usual during the process. 

"They’ve always given us the support we need when we need it.”

 “This high-profile Shropshire transaction highlights our commitment to supporting clients with tailored solutions and hands-on guidance," added Natasha Hill, Associate Director at Azets in Shrewsbury, "Securing the succession of the Wildes’ family business under new ownership with continuing operational involvement by the family. 

"We are proud of the fact that we can provide the full range of quality advisory services in the region and worked with a local legal firm to achieve the family’s desired outcome.”  

Ian, Keith, Peter and David Wilde were advised by Azets Corporate Finance (Natasha Hill), Azets Tax (Francesca Hutcheson), Azets Compliance (James Dawson) teams, as well as legal advice by ORJ Law Limited. Zofre Investments Limited was advised by Cripps.