Grounds care equipment distributor Golf and Turf Machinery Ltd (GTM), based in Wakefield, West Yorkshirehas become a division of Platts Harris Ltd, Ransomes Jacobsen’s dealer for Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
Platts Harris Ltd is a subsidiary of Lookers plc, who turned over £1.9 billion in 2010 and reported pre-tax profits of £33.6 million. The acquisition of the assets and trading style of Golf and Turf Machinery are part of Lookers’ ongoing expansion strategy and will ensure continuity of sales, spare parts and hire of specialist grounds care machinery to professional users in north, south and west Yorkshire.
Simon Wilson, managing director of Platts Harris Ltd commented: “GTM was a well managed business and it made sound commercial sense to make the acquisition. It extends our current Leicestershire ,Nottingham and Derbyshire grounds care activities and strengthens both organisations. We are delighted to welcome Glen Sawyer and his team to the group.
“We obviously benefit from an expanded territory and the GTM business will have a sound financial base going forward. Couple to this we are both major stakeholders in the Ransomes Jacobsen brands and it also strengthens their operation in the north of England.”
Glen Sawyer for Golf and Turf Machinery added: “We are delighted with the excellent outcome of our negotiations with Platts Harris. This is very positive news for all of us here at GTM and will provide us with stability for the long term. So much so, that we are currently looking for an additional five staff to boost our after sales support team, which also demonstrates the immediate commitment of our new owners. Without a doubt, the day-to-day running of the business will remain unchanged and we will continue to provide the high levels of service and customer care excellence as a division of Platts Harris.”
Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd www.ransomesjacobsen.com