Willans’ corporate & commercial team has advised a Gloucestershire-based medical equipment specialist, Medical Graphics UK, on the sale of the company to one of Europe’s premier pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organisations, The Wasdell Group.
The help of the firm’s real estate team was also enlisted to support with the commercial property elements of the sale.
Founded in 2007 by Ali and Nick Chapman, Medical Graphics UK supply hospitals, clinics, and research institutions across the UK. As well as providing specialist equipment, it offers installation, training, and technical support to the healthcare sector.
The company’s primary products help clinicians diagnose and monitor conditions such as asthma, COPD, and other respiratory or cardiac disorders.
After running the business together for over 15 years, and holding different operational roles within that time, Nick sadly passed away in 2024. Despite continuing to run the business for over a year, Ali’s shifting priorities and family commitments prompted a desire to sell the company.
“I was faced with the decision of whether to bring someone in or let a new owner take the reins. The right thing to do was to sell and move on,” said Ali.
It was at this stage that Ali brought in the expertise of Willans’ corporate & commercial team to guide the transaction. Chris Wills, Helen Howes and Tess Ciocci played a central role in negotiating the key terms of the deal, ensuring that the commercial objectives were protected while working constructively with the buyer’s advisers to reach an agreement.
“Chris, Helen and Tess were all so supportive and flexible, and always happy to adapt when required. Despite a few complications, the whole process was dealt with carefully and sensitively, with the entire team quick to respond at all times.”
The help of Willans’ head of real estate, Alasdair Garbutt was also engaged to prepare a deed of variation for a commercial property leased by the company. This ensured that property arrangements would not delay or jeopardise completion of the sale. “Alasdair was brilliant and acted so quickly. He immediately understood what was needed,” Ali commented.
Speaking about the deal, corporate & commercial partner Chris Wills said: “We were pleased to be able to support Ali through this process, helping to ensure the sale was completed smoothly and in a way that reflected the legacy of a business built through many years of hard work and commitment. It has been a privilege to assist Ali during such a significant period of change, and we wish her all the best for the future.”
When asked what she would suggest to other business owners about to embark upon a company sale, Ali was clear in her advice. “Trust in your solicitor because ultimately, they are representing you and your business interests. If there was anything I needed to know, the team would tell me. They all had my back.”
To find out more, visit https://medicalgraphicsuk.com/
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