Geldards advises trade supplier PJ Fire on sale to CheckFire Group

Geldards has successfully advised the shareholders of Chesterfield-based trade supplier of fire extinguishers and ancillaries PJ Fire, on its sale to fire safety equipment supplier and long-term partner CheckFire Group.

An independent business founded in 2007 by Peter Cowley, PJ Fire has grown steadily over the years to become a leading supplier of refurbished Co2 extinguishers to the UK fire trade, employing 50 staff.  In a move to secure the manufacturing future of the company, Peter wanted to find a new owner for the business as the time came for him to step away from the company he had worked hard to establish and look forward to retirement.

Based in South Wales CheckFire has enjoyed a long strategic partnership with PJ Fire and the businesses share many synergies, including the drive for first class customer service and a commitment to British manufacturing and a focus on sustainability.  With a turnover of around £33 million CheckFire will build on the legacy of the PJ Fire Brand and bolster the customer product offering.

Geldards team led by Corporate Partner Peter Seary provided a specialist range of legal advice to conclude the sale, supported by Andrew Evans (Tax), Sophie Henwood (Corporate) Sarah Bailey-Parke (Corporate), Gemma Wrighton (Commercial Property), Sarah Jackson (Commercial Property) and Phil Moorey (Employment).

Pictured are: Cameron Robins (L), MD CheckFire with Peter Cowley (R), PJ Fire founder

Peter Seary, Corporate Partner Geldards commented:

“Geldards was pleased to advise the shareholders of PJ Fire on the sale to CheckFire Group.  It was important that Peter found the right buyer continue the legacy of his company and maintain ‘business as usual’ during the sale process.”

Peter Cowley, Founder PJ Fire commented:

“Many thanks to Geldards for the robust advice they provided throughout the sale process, I can’t thank them enough for their commitment and professionalism throughout our journey.”