With the full blessing of the Pickering family, Russell Dawson has been successful in a Management Buyout of EPSL Educational Printing Services Limited (EPSL), this is following the sudden and unexpected death of the owner and Managing Director, David Pickering.
The company has over 45 years’ experience in the educational printing industry having been established in 1975 by David’s parents, Fred and Glenis Pickering. Former Company Secretary Glenis, commented “I am certain that David would join me in wishing Russell every success with the business, and would like to thank all the staff at EPSL for their hard work and support during this very emotional and sad time. Good luck in everything you do”.
EPSL is a leading provider of printed supplies for schools, colleges, universities, academies, private tutors and home-schooling parents. EPSL has partnerships with some of the UK’s most experienced educational practitioners and will continue to produce an extensive range of high-quality educational resources to support your educational outlet.
Russell came to EPSL from a successful background in lean engineering and was invited by David to join the company in 2010 to oversee investment in new technology, advanced machinery and processes. Since his appointment the company’s progress has been noted and recognised over the years, including selection as finalists in the prestigious Red Rose Awards. The company also works closely with local charities for the benefit of both children and teachers. The company recently achieved an ambitious business plan to double turnover in a 4-year period, and managed this in just 3 years! EPSL continues to strive forward with exciting plans!
Russell considered David as a close friend not just his employer, and commented, “The loss of David in April last year was a devastating shock to me and all the staff at EPSL. David was very passionate about the family business and was proud to provide jobs for local people. We will all miss him dearly. We owe it to David’s memory to continue with the excellent service and products we supply to schools across the country and worldwide, and I believe he would have approved of this move forward for the business. I had a close working relationship with David over the last 10 years, and have observed and learnt from his strong managerial skills. I have the confidence to take on the business and continue to drive it forward. I would also like to recognise the loyal and skilled workforce at EPSL, everyone is valued. We will move forward together as a team and continue with our long-term plans and an exciting future for EPSL”.
Russell would also like to thank Robert Williams of Williams & Co Corporate Finance, Haworths Chartered Accountants, James O’Donnell and Callum Dalloway of O’Donnell Solicitors and White Oak UK who have helped him secure the purchase. “Robert is a leading specialist in corporate finance, and has proven invaluable in providing financial advice on securing the purchase of EPSL, in what has been a very delicate and sensitive matter because of the circumstances. Haworths Chartered Accountants have provided accountancy services to EPSL for over 7 years, and have assisted throughout with their professional and efficient services. O’Donnell Solicitors advised on the corporate subtleties of the deal and handled the nuances of the transaction clearly and efficiently throughout, and White Oak UK have been instrumental in sourcing the funding to allow the purchase to happen, they have been an absolute pleasure to deal with, making the whole process as easy as possible whilst remaining professional at all times.”
