Tetrosyl acquires Oldham-based James Briggs Ltd

Tetrosyl's HQ at Newgate House, Rochdale

Rochdale-based Tetrosyl, the largest manufacturer and supplier of car care products in Europe and the UK’s biggest independent oil blender, announced on Friday (30 August 2019) the acquisition of Oldham-based James Briggs, one of Europe’s oldest and largest consumer chemicals businesses.

Peter Schofield, Tetrosyl Group Chairman, commented: “We are delighted to welcome the James Briggs’ business and the James Briggs’ team to the Tetrosyl family and are sure that the combined business will have great success in the future.

“Tetrosyl leads the way in brand management with a combination of innovation, technology and design and James Briggs has many years of manufacturing experience and expertise. The strategic fit is exceptional.”

Paul Blackaby, James Briggs CEO, added: “I am delighted that James Briggs will be joining the Tetrosyl Group. The business is in excellent condition, has real momentum and Tetrosyl’s ownership will ensure the longevity of the business for our customers and suppliers, whilst the combination will create opportunity for our talented and valued employees.

“I would like to thank Endless, who are now exiting their investment but who have been hugely supportive of the business over the last few years.”

Tetrosyl’s takeover of the company sees private equity investor Endless, which bought James Briggs in 2013, exit its investment.

James Briggs and Endless were advised by Giles Chesher and Matt Canipa at law firm Squire Patton Boggs.

The Tetrosyl group manufacturers and supplies products for car valeting, crash repair systems, automotive parts, trade and retail paints, DIY tools, in-car connectivity, leisure products and a home improvement range.

Most products that Tetrosyl manufacture can be bought in supermarkets, high street shops and petrol stations. Altogether over 2,500 manufactured product lines, such as T-Cut, CarPlan, Triplewax, Wonder Wheels, Carlube, Bluecol and Tetrion, are distributed to 100 countries across the globe each year.

James Briggs dates back to 1830 and the dawn of the industrial revolution, now being one of Europe’s largest consumer chemicals businesses with brands like Hycote, Nilco and Tek Body & Paint.

Producing 60m aerosols in the last year, the business employs over 300 staff across two sites in Royton and Chadderton.