SFI Logistics Ltd (SFI), based in Twickenham (SW London), is one of the largest furniture installation companies in the UK and their extensive range of services includes storage, furniture distribution, installations, and commercial relocation work.
The key founder of SFI, Bruce Edwards, approached The MGroup Corporate Finance team to help facilitate an effective exit from the business for the shareholders.
Challenge
The Sellers decided they were ready to begin their retirement journey and wanted to ensure the business would be transferred into safe hands, whilst also protecting the legacy of the business they’d worked hard to create and safeguarding their loyal team.
After previously exploring their options, the Sellers were recommended to speak with The MGroup as representing a better fit and solution to support the next stage of their exit planning.
Significant levels of preparatory work had already been undertaken, which contributed to a tightening up of certain commercial documents, meaning the business was better positioned for a sale process. What the Sellers needed now was a trusted, experienced team to identify a suitable strategic buyer, manage a robust plan, and get the deal done, whatever it takes.
Solution
From our very first meeting, it was clear that the Sellers valued clarity of communication, constructive progress, and professionalism – three things we pride ourselves on. We put in place a strategic project plan including detailed financial analysis, buyer research and impactful marketing documentation, also setting up a data room to house key company documents in anticipation of due diligence.
The sale process generated good levels of interest from the external market with many progressing to meetings with the sellers and the submission of bids. Eventually, a buyer with the right motivations and strategic fit with SFI, became the preferred bidder and we were able to successfully negotiate acceptable terms for the Sellers.
With several different advisory teams on the Buyer’s side, the due diligence process required patience, perseverance and focus. The MGroup team closely managed and coordinated due diligence, alleviating the pressure and stress on the Sellers, allowing them to also focus on running the business in parallel. We maintained deal momentum, anticipating key hurdles, and working closely with the appointed legal team to avoid possible risks. It’s important to keep a level head and to manage emotions in such an intensive period, but we worked tirelessly as a team to support each other.
Negotiating the commercial terms of the sale contracts was an extended part of the latter stages, but again, we kept communication steady and solutions-focused throughout. Our goal was always to maintain positive momentum and to protect our client’s interests at all times.
Results
Despite some delays, we’re proud to say the deal completed successfully, allowing the Sellers to exit and move confidently into retirement, following a period of handover and transition. In June 2025, SFI Logistics Ltd was acquired by Wavertree Bay Investments Ltd.
What made the difference?
- A strong advisory partnership built on trust
- Experienced and expert advice
- Comprehensive support through due negotiations and due diligence
- A well-managed data room that made information access seamless
- A calm, experienced team that remained level-headed throughout
“This was a great example of how a well-prepared and managed business, and a strong advisory relationship can result in a great outcome, even when the road gets bumpy. We were proud to support the owners of SFI through their retirement exit, and deliver the professionalism, clarity, and tenacity the deal process required.” Geoff, Partner at The MGroup Corporate Finance
“I genuinely don’t think the deal would have completed without Geoff and the team. Their professionalism, experience, and calm, level-headed approach were exactly what I needed throughout a long and complex process. The data room was faultless, their support during due diligence was outstanding, and they handled every twist and turn with total competence. Compared to others I’ve worked with, their fee was not only fair, but it was also absolutely earned. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.” Bruce Edwards, majority shareholder, SFI Logistics Ltd