For almost three decades, Willans has advised a nationally renowned specialist in trade supply and home and commercial improvements. Here, in the first of a series of articles, we reflect on their journey through commercial property and business acquisitions.
With headquarters in Gloucestershire and an ever-expanding business and property portfolio, Joedan is a thriving family-run company, which over the years has evolved to become a leader in its sector.
“We have 240 employees, which includes fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, and even three generations of the same family,” says John Purcaro, founder of the business, which was named after his son, Joseph and daughter, Daniella.
Approaching its 40th anniversary next year, Joedan was “started from the kitchen table” by John and his wife, Nicky. As both a manufacturer and installer, it provides a complete solution for customers. As well as manufacturing over a thousand windows per week, the company supplies its products to a network of 28 showrooms across the UK.
As a result of its success, Joedan has acquired a series of businesses over the last two decades; firstly, one of its biggest trade customers in Winchester in 2008, followed by another in Kent in 2014. In 2018, it acquired a business in the Isle of Wight, as well as two more sites in Bournemouth and Manchester in 2020. All acquisitions and commercial property sales were dealt with and advised on by Willans’ corporate & commercial and real estate teams.
Most recently, Joedan has further expanded on the Isle of Wight, acquiring a business and its primary operational facility in October 2024. In fact, in the last six months alone, Willans has advised Joedan on one business acquisition and the purchase of four commercial property units, helping the company to continue its plans for expansion.
“Our most recent acquisition will increase our presence on the Isle of Wight,” says John, “but also, as we plan to grow the existing manufacturing base, this will create employment for upcoming generations on the island. This is all part of a growth strategy for Joedan Holdings, which we plan to expand even further across the UK, generating more future employment opportunities.”
Clearly, underneath the company’s business goals is an awareness of its potential impact and a commitment to leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. This is echoed within the business’ 2025 plans for one of its most recent property purchases.
“One of the commercial units we’ve purchased on the Isle of Wight will contain a Joedan virtual reality showroom, where there’ll be no physical products on display, but virtual reality software will allow customers to see what their windows and doors will look like in their homes, before they buy,” John explains.
Alasdair Garbutt, a partner in our real estate team, has advised the Purcaro family for many years. “It’s been a pleasure to work with John, Joseph and indeed Joedan over the years. I’ve no doubt the company will continue to achieve what they set out to and Willans will be with them every step of the way.”
All in all, our firm has advised the Purcaro family, Joedan Group and Joedan Holdings on a wide range of legal matters, from corporate & commercial and real estate to litigation, employment law and wills, trusts & probate.
Reflecting on the working relationship between Willans and Joedan, John Purcaro is sure of one thing. “Has Willans helped us to grow our business? 100%. I believe the most important thing in business is your suppliers and Willans has been a huge part of our journey.
Find out more about Joedan and Willans’ long-standing working relationship with the company in this case study.
Disclaimer: All legal information is correct at the time of publication but please be aware that laws may change over time. This article contains general legal information but should not be relied upon as legal advice. Please seek professional legal advice about your specific situation - contact us; we’d be delighted to help.