Engineering & Cutting Tool Distributor and Supplier - Defence Sector
Confidentially offered for Sale
Ref Number: HR02-ABS
Asking Price: £400,000
Location: Southern England
Asking Price: £400,000 plus stock (cash-free, debt-free)
Current Turnover: Circa £1,500,000 p.a.
Gross Profit Approx: Circa £480,000 p.a.
Adjusted EBITDA (pre director drawings): Circa In excess of £225,000 p.a.
Customer Base: 30 regular clients, including blue-chip defence contractors
Quality Standards: ISO9008 accredited
Reason for Sale: Retirement
Business Overview:
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a highly reputable, long-established engineering and cutting tool supplier with an exceptional reputation, a loyal customer base, and strong positioning within the UK’s defence supply chain.
Founded in 2008, the Business has become one of the UK’s most trusted engineering and cutting tool distributors, supplying premium quality products to manufacturers across multiple sectors, with a strong concentration in defence-related industries.
Key products include:
- Carbide end mills & slot drills
- Vari helix end mills & roughing end mills
- Carbide drills, spot drills & centre drills
- Machine taps & threadmills
- Indexable inserts
- General engineering tools
The company is a main distributor for several leading global brands, including:
OSG | Kyocera | Walter | Prototyp | Iscar | Emuge | Franken | Toolex
Market Position & Competitive Advantage:
The Business has cultivated an enviable reputation for:
- Quality & reliability – Supplying only premium tools and consumables
- Sector specialisation – Strong focus on defence sector clients, providing recurring, high-value orders
- Comprehensive product range – Vast inventory with immediate availability
- Technical expertise – Experienced staff providing tailored advice and after-sales support
- Value-added services – Including tool refurbishment, consignment stock, and advanced vending systems
Vending & Asset Management Systems:
The Business differentiates itself through a sophisticated tool vending solution, enabling clients to optimise stock control and reduce downtime.
- Supplies and integrates Matrix vending systems
- Provides real-time inventory tracking and automated replenishment
- Helps clients reduce consumable costs and improve operational efficiency
Customers & Sectors:
- Loyal and recurring customers
- Several long-term, high value defence sector clients
- Some customers operate under exclusive supply agreements
- Majority of clients place repeat orders, ensuring predictable revenues
Marketing & Sales:
- Professional website showcasing products, services, and promotions
- Online visibility supported by product catalogues and promotional videos
- Occasionally targeted direct mail campaigns
- Strong reputation drives significant word-of-mouth referrals
Operations & Staff:
- Highly trained team of 5 full-time employees and 1 part-time staff member
- Owners maintain strategic oversight and supplier relationships
- Smooth handover assured – current owners will provide training and transitional support
Financial Performance:
|
Financial Summary- |
FY2024 |
|
Turnover- |
c£1,500,000 |
|
Gross Profit- |
c£480,000 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA/Net Profit |
c£225,000+ |
|
Asking Price- |
£400,000 + Stock |
|
Basis of Sale- |
Cash-Free, Debt-Free |
Stock: To be valued separately at completion.
Opportunities for Growth
The Business is well-positioned for expansion:
- Defence sector growth: Increased government defence budgets present further opportunities
- Digital sales strategy: Enhance online presence and drive e-commerce sales
- Supplier partnerships: Potential to introduce additional premium tooling brands
- Geographical expansion: Increase in market penetration in Southern England
- Recurring revenues: Further development of tool vending systems
Reason for Sale:
The owners are seeking to retire after successfully running the business for 16 years.
Support and Training:
The vendors are committed to ensuring a smooth and well-supported transition to the new owners. They would also consider staying on in the business post sale as an employee should the new owner so require.
Confidentiality Notice:
This Sales Memorandum is strictly confidential and intended solely for parties directly interested in acquiring the Business. By accepting this document, you agree not to disclose its contents to any third party without the prior consent of Abercorn Business Sales.
Next Step: To Register Interest, you will need to fully complete our Confidentiality Agreement
Important Notice
This information has been prepared by Abercorn Business Sales to provide a general overview of the opportunity. It does not constitute an offer or contract.
Interested parties are required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before receiving further details, including financial statements, client lists, and supplier agreements.
To Register Interest or to seek additional Information, please contact Abercorn Business Sales e-mail: [email protected] or telephone: 0800-246-1313
Commercial Finance:
Abercorn Business Sales are specialists in highly confidential off-market business sales. Should you require commercial finance, we have a panel of leading commercial finance brokers with access to the whole market to enable you to source the best possible terms.
Call today on 0800-246-1313 or email at [email protected] or visit our website www.abercornbusinesssales.com
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