Based in Lincolnshire, this family-owned business has been providing animal health and equine products to merchants, retail saddleries, country stores and veterinary pharmacy outlets throughout the country for over 160 years.  It specialises in the manufacture and wholesale of high quality medicines including licensed veterinary treatments for horses, cattle, sheep and other animals.

Battle Hayward and Bower carries over 5,500 lines of stock, and its wholesale sector ensures that the goods can be distributed widely throughout the UK, Europe and further afield.

The deal was introduced to Business Finance by the Nottingham office of Deloitte who were the advisers to the MBI team led by Nick Carr and Rob Hicking.

The management team is led by Jim Bowen, Managing Director, who has a wealth of experience in the veterinary wholesale business and Richard Dewey, Financial Director. The finance package consists of invoice discounting, inventory, real estate finance and a cash flow loan.

Jim Bowen, commented: “Deloitte was able to advise us on what was a complex deal. Combining this with Business Finance's ability to structure an effective funding package enabled us to complete the MBI within the timeframe required.  The  Business Finance team, led by Barry Lee, demonstrated a proven ability in this area . We are now in a position to continue the long-standing relationships that exist with key customers and suppliers.”

Paul Edmeades, Director at GE Commercial Finance, commented: “Business Finance is delighted to have enabled the swift execution of this deal. The company is a well-known leader in the industry and, after this recent transaction, it preserves its sound financial footing to continue its development.”

Rob Hicking, from Deloitte in Nottingham said, "Our understanding of  the Battle, Hayward & Bower  business allowed us to put together a successful deal structure. We are convinced that the business will go from strength to strength under the management team of Jim and Richard.”

Wragge and Co along with Shoosmiths acted as lawyers on the transaction, with Bentley Jennison Corporate Finance acting as advisors to Business Finance.