The team acted for Littleworth Nurseries Limited in its purchase of the business and assets of Opperman Plants Limited, a long-established, family-run nursery based in the county.
Established in 1997 by Mike and Jenny Opperman, Opperman Plants has nearly 30 years’ experience in growing and supplying tropical plants and outdoor ornamentals to some of the UK’s largest national supermarket brands.
The company entered administration in April after mounting financial pressure created by the collapse of one of its major customers, a national retailer. Together with rising costs and HMRC arrears, the company’s cash flow and working capital requirements were put under further strain. This led to Nathan Jones and John Lowe of FRP Advisory being appointed as joint administrators of the company.
The joint administrators continued to trade the business after their appointment while seeking a buyer. Mike and Jenny Opperman were successful with their bid for the business and bought it through Littleworth Nurseries, a company which they owned but which had not traded for a long period of time.
The Rothera Bray team that advised on the transaction were Partner, David Kaplan (corporate), Senior Associate, Liz Mills (corporate), Senior Associate, Marneya Chauhan (commercial property) and Managing Associate, Ruth Ball (insolvency).
Commenting Mike Opperman said:
“In what for me was a daunting situation, the Rothera Bray team were professional, warm and easy to engage with. Liz and Marneya explained convoluted documents to me in plain English. The whole team worked to a very tight timescale and ultimately delivered completion on time.”
Nathan Jones of FRP Advisory commented:
“We are pleased to have secured a sale of the business and assets to Littleworth Nurseries Limited, which will enable the business to continue trading and safeguard the remaining jobs.
“Opperman Plants is a well-regarded business with a long history in the horticultural sector, and this transaction provides continuity for customers, suppliers and employees. We would like to thank staff for their support and professionalism throughout the administration process.”
Liz Mills commented:
“It was a pleasure to work with Mike. He’s amassed decades of experience in the industry and I’m delighted that the business, which is so well-regarded, was saved, safeguarding jobs. I am delighted that the Rothera Bray team were able to assist with the acquisition and save the business and the jobs of 39 staff members. I wish Mike all the best for the future.”
The joint administrators were advised by Shoosmiths LLP (legal).
Should your business need legal advice on mergers and acquisitions, contact us on 03456 465 465 or email enquiries@rotherabray.co.uk
