All Interests Aligned (AIA) – a European management buy-in platform backed by entrepreneurial investors and specialising in acquiring profitable SMEs in need of a succession solution – has announced the acquisition of H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd., a leading UK carpet and flooring company.
The deal secures the future of the business by building on solid foundations and bringing in new leadership from Philip Cefai (previously MD, Crown Paints).
H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd., established in 1802, has become a well-known and respected force in the carpet and flooring sector in the Northwest of the UK. The company has been successfully transformed by six generations of the Mears family, into the modern, efficient business it is today.
Guy Mears said: “From our first meeting, I felt Philip and the AIA team genuinely understood what our 220-year legacy represents – the high standards we’ve built with our loyal staff and clients, many of whom have been with us for over 30 years. This must continue, and I’m certain it will. That’s what sets Mears apart.”
Philip Cefai commented: “It’s a privilege to take the helm of such a respected and long-established business. H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd. stands for quality, trust, and community – values that I intend to carry forward. With AIA as my investment partner, I have both the backing and the strategic support to build on the company’s strong foundations and unlock new opportunities for growth.”
Across Europe, thousands of profitable businesses are seeking ways to secure their future, as a generation of entrepreneurial business owners look to step back from operations or retire. AIA brings together ready private capital, and experienced, entrepreneurial operators, supporting them to fulfil their ambition and acquire companies.
Ralf Grass, founder and Chairman of AIA said: “H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd. is a great business which we are proud to continue as owners and operators through the next stages of its journey. Philip’s track record within the homebuilding sector, combined with his shared vision for the future, makes this an excellent match for sustained growth.”
