LIFEBOAT MANAGEMENT SETS SAIL WITH FORMARA ACQUISITION

Fabio Rambelli, Associate Director at KBS Corporate, has advised on the sale of Formara Ltd to a boutique private investment firm.

Founded in 1971, Formara established itself as a printing specialist for commercial clients situated in London and the Home Counties.

The Essex-based company has grown successfully since this time, diversifying its offering with integrated marketing and communications solutions.

Formara’s services now encompass direct marketing, print-on-demand, personalised printing, fulfilment and design solutions.

Phil Wilce, Managing Director of Formara, was eager to find the right deal that would allow him to step away from the business.

Fabio said: “Phil wanted to meet interested parties that were personable and dedicated to keeping Formara on a successful trajectory post-sale.”

The opportunity appealed to Lifeboat Management Ltd, a private investment company looking for scalable opportunities in the commercial market.

Lifeboat applies fundamental analysis and value investing principles to identifying acquisitions with vast growth potential.

Phil Wilce commented on the deal: “Lifeboat’s approach to buying the business was underpinned by its commitment to conserving Formara’s history, culture and strengths in order to drive its continued success and look after the team that has helped to build it.”

Taha Afshar, Chief Investment Officer of Lifeboat, added: “Working with Phil has been a real pleasure and we are delighted with the outcome of our discussions.”

During the transaction, Formara was assisted by solicitors Richard Coulthard and Emma Hope of Ison Harrison, as well as accountants Stuart Harrison and Victoria Butler of Venthams.

Additionally, Byron Swarbrick of James Legal supported the deal as Lifeboat’s solicitor.

Fabio added: “It has been a pleasure working with all parties on this project. I wish Phil a very happy retirement and the Lifeboat team a successful and profitable future with Formara.”