Ramsden Group drums up future growth with Argent

Ramsden Group has been sold to Argent Industrial in a €12.5million transaction. 

With origins dating back to 1954, Ramsden Group is an industrial packaging group. Its operations include the manufacture of new and reconditioned steel drums, wooden pallet supply and the reconditioning of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs). 

Ramsden Group comprises Ramsden & Whale, Ramsden Steel Drums and Ramsden Pallets and Drumcare, combining a range of industrial packaging capabilities. 

Argent Industrial is a JSE-listed South African industrial group. The acquisition supports Argent Industrial’s continued expansion in the European market. 

For Ramsden Group, the transaction represents an important milestone after more than 70 years of trading and provides an exit for its shareholders. 

The shareholders were supported by KBS throughout the sale process, from company positioning and term negotiations through to due diligence and completion. 

Dawn Richardson, Director of Ramsden & Whale, commented: “Selling a company you’ve built from the ground up is both emotional and complex, but working with KBS was the best decision we made. 

“Their strategic guidance, market positioning and sheer determination ensured we achieved a deal structure and valuation that exceeded our expectations. They anticipated potential pitfalls throughout the process, while their attention to detail during due diligence, expert negotiation and clear communication made a daunting process surprisingly manageable. 

“We are extremely grateful for their dedication and outstanding execution.” 

George Dalton, KBS Corporate Associate Director, who led the transaction, added: “Ramsden Group is a highly established group of businesses with exceptional capabilities in the steel and wastecare market. The group has the ability to manufacture new and reconditioned steel drums, produce new and reconditioned pallets and provide IBC reconditioning services – a one-stop-shop for its customers.

“Argent Industrial saw an opportunity to broaden its capabilities through its continued expansion into the European market.  

“We advised Dawn and the remaining shareholders throughout the process and we are delighted they have achieved a result they are very pleased with.”

Written by

Jon Wilde

Senior Content Specialist

Jon Wilde is a Senior Content Specialist at KBS Corporate, specialising in business sales, mergers and acquisitions, exit planning and corporate finance. Since joining the group in 2023, he has researched and written extensively on topics including private equity, Employee Ownership Trusts, due diligence, business valuation, tax considerations and M&A market trends. Drawing on insights from experienced advisers, dealmakers and industry specialists, Jon produces research-led content for business owners and also reviews content across the website to help maintain editorial quality, accuracy and consistency.