Stacatruc’s growth journey offers a remarkable example of the value of strategic vision and flexible financing. As a well-established business specialising in forklift rental, sales, maintenance, and financing, Stacatruc has been providing both new and pre-owned machinery, engineering support, and equipment across the UK for over 40 years. Headquartered in Thatcham, Berkshire, the company has become Europe’s largest supplier of forklifts from the esteemed manufacturer Clark. In 2021, Merino Capital, led by Investment Director Ben Reavley, saw promising growth potential in Stacatruc. This led to a collaboration with Arbuthnot Commercial Asset Based Lending, aimed at funding Stacatruc’s expansion and fostering its acquisition plans.
With a carefully customised working capital solution from Arbuthnot, Stacatruc pursued a buy-and-build strategy. This approach was evident in June 2021, where the tailored financing facility enabled Stacatruc to secure its first acquisition and enhance its capital position for broader business goals. Following this successful transaction, Reavley expressed optimism about Stacatruc’s future, noting that Arbuthnot’s support had created substantial headroom for the business to invest in stock, capital expenditure, and service expansion, especially in response to growing e-commerce and warehousing demands across the UK. The dynamic deal-making process involved several challenges, which Arbuthnot handled effectively with an agile approach to credit approval and issue resolution, helping Stacatruc navigate complexities as they emerged.
Stacatruc’s expansion continued into 2022, marked by the acquisition of Knightsbridge Mechanical Handling in August. With Arbuthnot’s assistance, this acquisition broadened Stacatruc’s hire fleet and extended its reach into the North West. Reavley praised Arbuthnot’s ongoing support and commitment, highlighting the strong partnership that had developed between the teams. By June 2024, Stacatruc made further strides with the acquisition of Blandford Forklifts, which expanded the group’s footprint into the South West of England with a new depot in Dorchester.
Even as Stacatruc was preparing for a significant ownership transition, it completed another bolt-on acquisition. The company is now positioned for additional growth, including a private equity-backed Management Buyout (MBO) aimed at expanding its geographical footprint and building upon its established success. Reflecting on the journey with Arbuthnot, Reavley noted that the buy-and-build strategy often required adapting to new opportunities, and Arbuthnot’s responsiveness made them an invaluable partner. This collaboration not only facilitated investment realisation but also strengthened Stacatruc as a platform for future growth.
Andrew Rutherford, Commercial Director at Arbuthnot Commercial ABL, acknowledged the importance of customised client strategies and expressed pride in their role in Stacatruc’s journey. The partnership with Merino Capital and Stacatruc’s management team illustrates the impact of strategic acquisitions and flexible financial solutions, resulting in substantial growth and a successful MBO. Rutherford looked forward to future collaborations with Merino Capital, underscoring Arbuthnot’s commitment to supporting unique client needs with adaptable financing.
Arbuthnot Banking Group PLC (LON:ARBB), trading as Arbuthnot Latham, provides private and commercial banking products and services in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1833, Arbuthnot Banking is based in London, United Kingdom.
