Private equity investors, strategic trade acquirers and international industrial groups continue to show strong appetite for acquisitions across the manufacturing sector, driven by its critical role in supply chains, opportunities for operational improvement and potential for scalable growth. Buyers are particularly focused on businesses with niche production capabilities, strong engineering expertise, long-standing customer relationships and exposure to resilient end-markets such as aerospace, automotive, infrastructure and industrial services. Companies demonstrating robust margins, repeat revenues and the ability to support consolidation strategies are especially attractive.

KBS Corporate has a strong track record advising owner-managed and mid-market manufacturing businesses across a wide range of sub-sectors, including industrial products, specialist components and advanced manufacturing. The team has successfully supported numerous transactions, including the sale of Car-Chem, an award-winning manufacturer and international distributor of vehicle care products, as well as Midland Ladder Co. Ltd and other industrial businesses. Further transactions highlight KBS Corporate’s breadth in the sector, including the sale of Clingbrook, a rubber moulding manufacturing business to Walker Rubber, demonstrating continued demand for specialist production capabilities and niche manufacturing expertise.