UK Construction Journal - Issue 1 - April 2026 - Flipbook - Page 52
Legal advice was provided by Forbes Solicitors.
David Filmer of Forbes Solicitors commented:
“
This is a well-structured Employee Ownership Trust
transaction that balances the objectives of the
shareholders with the long-term interests of the business
and its employees. We were delighted to have assisted
in the process.”
Funding support was provided by HSBC. Jenny Taylor of
HSBC added:
Jon Wilson, Co-Founder & Director of Darwen Terracotta,
commented:
“
From the very beginning, this business has been about
people. We founded Darwen Terracotta to protect skills,
livelihoods, and a craft that matters. Choosing employee
ownership feels like the natural next step. It ensures that the
passion, pride, and commitment that built this company
will continue to drive it forward for generations to come.”
“
The transition to employee ownership marks a powerful
statement of confidence in Darwen Terracotta’s workforce
and future. From its roots in late-19th-century craftsmanship,
through its rebirth in 2015, to its global reputation today, the
company’s story has always been defined by resilience, skill,
and people.
Steve Allen, Co-Founder & Director of Darwen Terracotta,
added:
With ownership now placed in the hands of its employees,
Darwen Terracotta and Whitebirk Sink Company look
ahead to the next decade with renewed purpose: preserving
British ceramic heritage, embracing innovation, and building a
sustainable future for generations to come.
Supporting an EOT requires a clear understanding of the
business and its future plans. Early engagement allowed
the funding structure to be aligned with long-term
sustainability, ensuring continuity for the business and its
employees.”
“
Transitioning the business to employee ownership was
a decision driven by people and legacy. We wanted
to ensure the business remained independent, that our
employees were recognised for the role they have
played in building it, and that the company was set up for
long-term continuity. Logros supported us throughout the
process and helped deliver an outcome that feels right for
the business and everyone involved.”
Under employee ownership, Darwen Terracotta enters its
next chapter with a strong foundation: a profitable, respected
British manufacturing business, a clear growth strategy, and
continued investment in advanced digital technologies and
robotics to enhance and support craftsmanship.
The creation of the EOT was made possible through months
of preparation and close collaboration with professional
partners. The transaction was advised by Logros Advisory
Partners, acting as lead corporate finance advisors to the
shareholders.
Brian Higgins, Managing Partner at Logros Advisory
Partners, said:
“
Employee ownership can be an excellent solution for
founders seeking to realise their investment in a business
while still protecting the culture, people, and longterm future of the company. This transaction was about
creating continuity, rewarding employees, and delivering
a structured and considered ownership transition.”
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