Assisi Pet Care to enter UK market with Hollings deal

Founded in 1980 by Jeff and Celia Hollings, the firm has its head office, warehousing and distribution operations in Skipton, as well as a purpose-built manufacturing facility in Worksop that produces a wide range of bones and treats.

The company supplies independent pet shops and leading retailers and wholesalers.

Assisi is a new company, which will be based at the Hollings head office in Skipton. It has been set up by Peter Mangion to create a meaningful presence in the pet care category in Europe, with the acquisition of Hollings forming the first strategic step in Assisi’s expansion. Institutional capital sponsorship was provided by Harwood Private Equity.

Mr Mangion, CEO of Assisi Pet Care, said: “Over the last 40 years, the Hollings family have worked hard to build the business and it is a real credit to them that they have created one of the best known brands of natural dog treats in the UK.

"We welcome their 50-strong team to Assisi and look forward to working with them to take Hollings’ products to a wider audience throughout the UK and into Europe. There’s no doubt that both the strong growth in the pet care sector and the general demand from consumers for natural products in every part of their lives, opens up some exciting opportunities.

“This is the first stage of an ambitious vision for Assisi to become a leader in the European pet care sector and we will be actively seeking further acquisitions as we pursue this strategy.”

The deal was supported by a team of Yorkshire advisers including Kaira Clarehugh, Jonathan Simms and Caitlin Hare of Clarion who provided legal advice to the purchaser, with corporate finance advice from Park Place.

Clearwater International (led by Richard Goldsack) and Grant Thornton (Jim Whittaker and Jonny Haygarth) acted as joint financial advisers to the shareholders of Hollings.Guy Ruddy,

Paul Mann and Joshua Headley of Squire Patton Boggs provided legal advice to Hollings.

Ms Clarehugh of Clarion said: “The combination of Peter’s extensive experience building successful businesses within the FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) arena, together with Hollings’ market leading brand is a great combination. We wish it every success with its continued expansion.”