Armstrong Watson secures sale of second-generation family business 

Background

Jack Coupe and Sons Limited is a reputable family business with more than 30 years’ experience in road marking services. Established in 1984 by Jack Coupe in County Durham, the company has grown to become a national contractor with bases in both the north and south of England. The business employs 42 staff across its specialist trading divisions: Coupe Line, Coupe Line Southern, Coupe Civils, H2-GO, and Shildon Thermoplastics.

In 2010, Jack Coupe's sons, Mark and Martin Coupe, took over the business from their father and expanded its operations, acquiring the trade and assets of Adams Contracting, leading to the establishment of Coupe Line Southern. Martin and Mark decided to retire and sought a new owner to build on the business’s strong market position.

How we helped

The Coupe family engaged Armstrong Watson’s Corporate Finance team to assist in the sale of the business. From initial meetings, the Armstrong Watson Corporate Finance team acknowledged that it was paramount to find a buyer who would continue to grow the business while preserving its legacy and looking after its loyal workforce.

The Corporate Finance team, led by David Wilson, introduced the family to Stuart Davison, whose goals aligned perfectly with the opportunity, quickly developing exciting growth plans for the company. During the process, the Corporate Finance team collaborated closely with the Coupe family to ensure a seamless transaction and transition, all while navigating the pressures of changing tax legislation.

In doing so, David and his team worked extremely proactively in managing the process through due diligence and the legal process to completion.

Results

The successful sale of Jack Coupe and Sons Limited to Stuart Davison marked a significant milestone for the company. Stuart Davison's acquisition brings new growth opportunities and a commitment to expanding the business operations. The Coupe family are confident Stuart's personable approach and vision for the future will ensure the businesses is successful for many more years to come.

“I was introduced to David and Ellis at Armstrong Watson from a close friend and right from day they have been faultless. They took great care of my family through the whole process and always went the extra mile to ensure we got the best we could from every situation. Selling a business is an extremely emotional and challenging task, they explained and guided us over every obstacle and managed to complete everything within the time frame set.

“We are delighted that Armstrong Watson introduced us to Stuart and believe he is the perfect fit to continue the growth of the business with his personable approach. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for Coupe Group and wish Stuart well.”

Martin Coupe, former owner of Jack Coupe and Sons Limited

Armstrong Watson’s Corporate Finance team, along with legal advisers at Ward Hadaway, successfully delivered the transaction ahead of tax rises in April, ensuring a seamless transition and a promising future for Coupe Group.