Ellisons announces change of ownership

The spa, hair and beauty wholesaler has transitioned ownership to a new generation of leadership

By Wendy Golledge

05 September 2024

www.ellisons.co.uk

Leading spa supplier Ellisons, the UK’s oldest established hair and beauty wholesaler, has completed a management buy out.

Managing director Geoff Morris has transitioned ownership to the existing management team – Matthew Champney, Lee Farmer and Nadine Meakins.

The current management team has acquired a significant equity stake in the business, transitioning ownership to a new generation of leadership.

Geoff Morris will remain as a substantial shareholder and advisor to the business. Paul Faulkner, former CEO of Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest, joins Ellisons as Chairperson.

David Tucker, from Jasper Equity – which originated and led the transaction – will also join the Ellisons Board.

“It gives me pleasure to see a new generation demonstrate their entrepreneurial flair and lead Ellisons into its next 100 years’ of business. The experience Paul brings to the management team will lead Ellisons towards an exciting new chapter in its long and cherished history.”

Geoff Morris

Managing director, Ellisons

A culture of entrepreneurship

“Across the business, colleagues show an unrivalled passion and understanding of professional hair and beauty,” adds Morris. “It gives me great confidence for the future.”

Founded in Birmingham in 1930, and now based in Coventry, Ellisons ships more than 2.5 million items annually to more than 50,000 spas, salons and other customers.

Its categories include skincare and facial, lashes and brows, tanning, cosmetics, nails, waxing, hair products and furniture.

Ellisons also and provides training and development through its online Academy.

“These changes ensure that the culture of independence and entrepreneurship, which has always been a hallmark of Ellisons, remains in place. Considerable industry knowledge is also retained in the business, alongside the addition of further experience in growing and developing businesses.”

Matthew Champney

Commercial director, Ellisons

Paul Faulkner added: “I am delighted to be joining Ellisons as chairperson. This is a well-established business with a deserved reputation for excellent customer service and innovation.

“Under Geoff’s leadership the business has evolved impressively over the past decade, and I am excited to help Ellisons embark on this next chapter of growth.

“I will support the management team with my own experience of developing teams and achieving results, while fostering a dynamic culture within the business.”

The advisors were Assay Corporate Finance, Penningtons Manches Cooper, Claritas and Higgs LLP. Santander remain funders to the group.

Sign up here to receive our weekly news delivered direct to your inbox