AGG Electrical Safety Testing Limited

Brothers Gavin and Andy Griffiths established AGG Electrical Safety Testing Limited in 2006 to offer straightforward and affordable Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) for local businesses and schools. The business grew quickly, expanding its services to include full property maintenance and, by 2018, providing nationwide coverage with engineers located across the UK. After building a successful company with a reputation for delivering a proactive service and ensuring their clients’ building maintenance was fully up to date, the brothers were ready to explore an exit strategy. They needed a trusted partner to guide them through the complex process of selling their business.

The Solution

As long-standing clients of Mitchells Accountants & Business Advisers, Gavin and Andy turned to their trusted adviser, Andrew McDaid, to begin the process. Andrew initiated the deal by helping the brothers explore their potential exit options. Recognising the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach, Andrew brought in specialists from Mitchells’ wider team

• Michael Heath, from Mitchells Corporate Agents, took the lead on finding a suitable buyer and negotiating the heads of terms. He specialises in helping clients find the best strategic fit for their business, ensuring the deal meets all of their objectives.

The preferred acquirer of AGG was Rose Street Partners, a private investment firm that specialises in acquiring and holding businesses for the long term. Unlike traditional private equity firms that operate on a fixed time horizon, Rose Street Partners is structured to be a permanent home for enduring businesses, focusing on a “forever” time horizon. The firm’s ethos is centred on preserving the legacy of the companies it acquires and acting with integrity to ensure their continued growth.

• Rob Drake, a Chartered Accountant and head of Corporate Finance projects at Mitchells, handled the financial due diligence requests from the buyer and provided strategic transaction support to the Sellers right up to the day of completion. Rob is known for providing pragmatic, solutions-focused advice and helping clients navigate the financial aspects of a sale. He works to proactively address a buyer’s queries, keeping the process on track and on budget.
• Liz Fisher, a Chartered Tax Adviser, provided expert tax advice to Gavin and Andrew, ensuring the sale of their shares was handled in a tax-efficient manner.

To manage the legal aspects of the transaction, Andrew McDaid referred AGG to CMP Legal, a commercial law firm known for its client-focused and proactive approach. This collaborative effort ensured all legal documentation and due diligence were handled efficiently. Rob Drake specifically advised on the completion mechanism and worked collaboratively with CMP Legal to ensure Gavin and Andrew’s interests were protected in the share purchase agreement.

“Choosing the right team for this journey was crucial,” said Gavin and Andy Griffiths. “The collaboration between Mitchells and CMP Legal made what could have been a stressful process incredibly smooth. Their combined expertise and coordinated effort meant we could focus on our business, knowing the transaction was in safe hands.”

The Result

The integrated approach of Mitchells’ specialist teams, working seamlessly with CMP Legal, led to the successful sale of AGG Electrical Safety Testing Limited. The Griffiths praised the team’s professionalism and expertise, noting how the clear communication and comprehensive support made them feel protected throughout the process.

“I wish to express my gratitude to you for all the hard work you have put in to get this deal over the line,” Gavin Griffiths shared. “It’s been refreshing to work with someone who is clearly an expert in the field! Your advice and support have been second to none… I feel I need to acknowledge how satisfied we are with the service provided at a fair price.”

“We are thrilled to welcome AGG into our family of companies,” said Dan Skyte from Rose Street Partners. “Andy and Gavin have built a phenomenal business with a strong reputation for excellence and a commitment to its customers. Their dedication to quality and service is exactly what we look for in our partners. Our long-term approach means we are not just acquiring a company; we are becoming a custodian of its legacy and a partner in its future growth. We look forward to supporting the AGG team as they continue to serve clients and expand their services.” Dan concluded: “Like all transactions should be, it was a great outcome for all involved which is testament to all the professionals involved.”

This case highlights how Mitchells’ full wrap-around service, from initial planning to final execution, provides clients with the peace of mind that comes from having a dedicated and expert team by their side.

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