Close Brothers Private Equity Limited (“CBPEL” – Notes to Editors) has, together with management, sold its investment in Barnsley-based Amber Doors Limited (Notes to Editors) to Cardo, a Swedish manufacturing group.

Amber Doors is the UK’s leading manufacturer of doors for industrial, security and fire safety uses. It also has ten repair depots around the country providing maintenance and support for its customer base.

Founded 19 years’ ago by Managing Director John Hamilton and Ernst Crapper, CPBEL invested in Amber Doors in 1998 in a capital release deal for the founder shareholders. The company’s specialist manufacturing and support services profile was particularly attractive to CBPEL which focuses on these sectors.

CBPEL’s Neil Murphy said: “Amber Doors has always been an innovative developer of market leading products as well as running a tight manufacturing facility. John Hamilton and his excellent management team have consistently demonstrated their ability to drive forward performance. Where other businesses have failed to serve their customers, Amber has always provided a quality service.

“We have had a very happy and productive association with the company and we are confident that it will continue to be a star performer for Cardo.”

Cardo has acquired the business to enhance its presence in the UK market. It is seeking to expand Amber Doors’ repair business and build on its portfolio of national customers.

Amber Doors’ management and CBPEL were advised on the exit by Pricewaterhouse Coopers in Leeds (Tony Meeke). Hammond Suddards Edge (Jonathan Jones) were the legal advisors.

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This press release has been issued by Close Brothers Private Equity Limited. Close Brothers Private Equity Limited is regulated by the FSA.

The above information is not to be regarded as an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Where information has been obtained from outside sources, it is believed to be reliable, but is not represented to be accurate or complete.