MKM has further expanded its presence across the Midlands following the acquisition of five sites from John Nicholls Trading.
Founded in 1965 by late chairman John Nicholls, the group has grown significantly over the years from one branch in Banbury to over 25 sites covering Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, and Dorset. MKM’s acquisition includes the following branches; – Banbury Building, Kitchen and Bathroom Showroom; Bicester Building and Plumbing & Heating and the Kitchen and Bathroom Showroom; Kidlington Building; Rugby Building and Plumbing & Heating; and its distribution centre at Long Hanborough.
Kate Tinsley, CEO of MKM, said: “The acquisition of these branches’ forms part of MKM’s ambitious growth strategy, enabling us to further expand our operations across the Midlands. Both businesses have built up excellent reputations for providing outstanding levels of customer service, so we are delighted to welcome the John Nicholls team to the MKM family and are looking forward to building on the success of the business in the future.”
Kate continued: “We are collaborating with the existing John Nicholls staff to ensure it will be a seamless transition, allowing customers to trade with MKM straight away with existing terms. The acquisition allows us to continue providing an independent merchant, ran by local people, for local people. We intend to preserve the values and local focus of John Nicholls as it is harmonious with the core ethos of MKM.”
Andrew Nicholls, Executive Chairman of John Nicholls Trading, commented: “I’m incredibly proud to see the business grow from humble beginnings in 1965 to the multi-branch business that it has become. We have taken our time and I know that in selling these branches to MKM we have found a suitable custodian to continue the levels of service our customers have become accustomed to.
“Whilst the decision to sell the sites has not been taken lightly, it allows us to focus on growing and developing our Plumbing & Heating and showroom businesses both in John Nicholls and J&B’s whilst retaining the Nicholls family name. As part of the sale, it also facilitates Phillip Nicholls’ retirement.”
Andrew added: “I am delighted to be spearheading a Management buyout of the Plumbing & Heating division with four of our directors – Adam England, Sam Hall, Mark Walton and David Simms ensuring the continuity of the Nicholls business moving forwards.”
