A famous manufacturer near York threatened with administration has been saved by a buyout.
York Handmade Brick Co Ltd, based at Alne, near Easingwold, had filed an application to appoint administrators.
But it’s now been bought by 4D Capital, a London-based private equity firm.
The new owners say the deal has prevented the brickmaker going into administration, saved 20 jobs and secured its long-term future.
York Handmade, which makes bespoke and premium handmade bricks, has worked on some prestigious projects, from Magdalene College Library in Cambridge to the Bustardthorpe development at York Racecourse.
The business will form part of 4D’s building products group, together with Hepworth Clay.
Founder of 4D Alex Silk said: “We are delighted to have added York Handmade to our building products group.
“Like Hepworth, it is a heritage brand producing high quality products and we are very proud to become its custodians.
“We are particularly pleased that Guy Armitage has chosen to work with us in the business. As a fifth generation brickmaker, his knowledge and passion will be integral to us realising our ambitions for the business.”
MD of York Handmade Guy Armitage said: “I am delighted to be working with 4D and Hepworth. Their expertise and track record in this sector are exactly what we need to take York Handmade to the next level.”
