How does the business operate on a daily basis?
The business operates on a daily hire and rental basis. Customers place orders for the event equipment they require, which is then prepared and checked by the staff for collection or delivery. After the event, the equipment is returned, checked, cleaned and prepared for the next booking.

The day-to-day operation involves managing bookings, preparing orders, coordinating deliveries and collections, maintaining the hire equipment and assisting customers with their event requirements.

What Advertising/Marketing is carried out?
The Digital Thread manages all our advertising on Google, Facebook, Instagram etc

Does the business have any contract work?
No

What are the seasonal trends?
Demand typically begins to increase during spring and builds steadily as summer approaches, reaching its peak towards the end of the year during the festive season.

Other regular seasonal opportunities include rugby festivals hosted by schools, which provide recurring business throughout the year.

The business also benefits from repeat bookings from larger corporates for functions and family days, as well as long-standing relationships with country clubs across the country, many of whom have been regular clients for several years.

Is the business VAT Registered?
Yes

What VAT documentation is on file?
Up to date

Are there up-to-date Management Accounts available?
Yes

Is Seller finance available and for what amount?
No

What is the total staff complement?
23 staff and 2 x Directors

Give a breakdown of staff/ functions/ length of service?
2 x Directors
1 x Consultant
1 x Sales manager
1 x Internal sales / receptionist
1 x factory supervisor
1 x laundry supervisor
3 x Drivers
13 x factory workers
2 x contract workers

The average term of employment for the staff is more than 20 years.

Do any receive special perks or incentives?
Performance Bonuses

Are they on contract?
All staff have employment contracts. The 2 x contract workers are over 65 years old and have Post Retirement contracts.

Do any have management potential?
Factory supervisor has recently been appointed and has been trained by external H/R consultant to up skill his potential in managing the factory staff. He has been employed for many years and has practical skill which are invaluable.

When does the current lease end?
Seller owns the building.

Is there an option of renewal & what period?
To be negotiated

What are the trading hours?
8am-5pm Monday to Friday

What is the square meters of the business?
2,505m squared

What lease deposit and/or other surety is required?
To be negotiated

What are the main assets of the business?
The main assets of the business are all the assets that they hire out like the marques, chairs etc.

What Special Equipment is on Hand?
The business has an S.A.P. Business 1 computer programme that manages the complete stock control process, from the initial enquiry through to order placement and invoicing, including the eventual return of stock. It also records any stock shortages, which are then accounted for against the relevant holding deposit.


The business also includes a tent washing machine which is invaluable when it comes to maintaining marquees which has been imported from leaders in Europe. It also happens to be one of three of these machines in the country.

Strengths?
Established for more than 50 years and has built a well-known name in the event hire industry. The business carries an extensive range of hire equipment, allowing it to service anything from smaller private functions to larger corporate and outdoor events. Its established customer base, industry experience and large reusable asset base are significant strengths.

Weaknesses?
The business is somewhat seasonal and can experience quieter periods, particularly during the winter months when there are fewer outdoor events. The operation also requires ongoing maintenance, cleaning, storage and replacement of hire equipment, as well as careful management of breakages and losses.

Opportunities?
There is an opportunity for a new owner to grow the business through stronger digital and social media marketing, online enquiries and potentially an improved online booking or quotation system. Further growth could also come from building relationships with wedding venues, event planners, corporate clients, caterers and conference facilities. Expanding or modernising the hire range could create additional revenue opportunities.

Threats?
The business operates in a competitive event hire market, with customers often comparing pricing between suppliers. Economic conditions can also affect spending on weddings, corporate functions and private events. Weather can impact outdoor events, while damage, loss or theft of hire equipment remains an ongoing operational risk.

What is the reason for the sale?
Retirement

Why is this a good business?
Well established business with more than 50 years of trading history and a recognised name in the event hire industry. It has a large range of reusable hire equipment and caters to both private and corporate clients across a variety of events.

The business has an established customer base, experienced staff and a proven operating model. With the infrastructure and equipment already in place, it offers a new owner a solid platform to continue operating while still having opportunities to grow the business through improved marketing, new corporate relationships and an increased online presence.

How did COVID affect the business
COVID had a significant impact on the business due to restrictions on gatherings, weddings, corporate functions and other events. This resulted in a substantial decline in demand for event equipment hire during the lockdown periods.

As restrictions were lifted and events were allowed to resume, the business gradually recovered along with the events industry. Having been established for many years the business was able to continue operating and rebuild its business as the market returned to normal.