The RFM Group acquires sash window specialist Ventrolla from ERA

The RFM Group has acquired wooden sash window repair, manufacturing and installation business Ventrolla from ERA Home Security. Ventrolla are the market leader in the repair, restoration and replacement of wooden sash windows. With factories in Harrogate and London totalling over 30,000 ft2, they operate nationwide and have sold over 100,000 sash windows. Ventrolla employs 75 staff across both sites, who will all transfer as part of the deal.

Ventrolla was founded in 1983 by Robert Tunnicliffe, a former engineer for Ford Motors, who pioneered and patented the companies unique ‘Perimeter Sealing’ and ‘Sash Removal’ systems. Robert turned his hand to draught-proofing sash windows after finding it increasingly difficult to keep his home warm during the colder months. Using his expertise at Ford he developed the first perimeter sealing system and installed it himself. These systems are still in use today and are core products in the Ventrolla service.

Following the acquisition, RFM has announced plans to invest in both a new showroom and a training academy at Ventrolla’s Harrogate headquarters, and both existing and new customers will now be able to benefit from RFM’s strong technology-led operation. Ian Flanagan, RFM Group CEO comments: “Ventrolla’s craftsmanship and modern engineering complement RFM Group’s world-class technology and property expertise. Their quality products and the high esteem in which both customers and the industry hold them is second to none. Alongside their talented team, I see great potential to develop their offering further by utilising RFM’s robust processes and smart technology.”

Jarrod Marchant, Ventrolla Managing Director comments: “RFM Group’s level of technology and appetite for growth is refreshing, it is fantastic to be part of a truly integrated property company. Capitalising on our 21st Century machining and traditional handcrafted skills, we look forward to building on Ventrolla’s 37-year history.”

Darren Waters CEO of ERA said: “The sale of Ventrolla to RFM Group positions ERA as a focused supplier of door and window components, smart home security and safe access solutions to the residential and commercial sectors, through the Access360, ERA, Fab&Fix, Giesse, Schlegel and Zoo brands. We are pleased to have completed this deal and wish RFM every success for the future.”

RFM Group were advised by Chris Silverwood of Harrogate based corporate finance advisors, CorpFin, with legal support provided by Adrian Ballam of Wardhadaway.

Chris Silverwood, CorpFin Corporate Financier comments: “Even in these challenging times, M&A transactions are continuing to be completed and this transaction was a particularly satisfying one to get away as it was on our home turf. I am sure that under the ownership of the RFM Group that Ventrolla will go from strength-to-strength.”

The purchase of Ventrolla is RFM Group’s third acquisition in twelve months with other deals currently in discussion. It follows RFM’s recent purchase of the Leeds based Hevertech brand earlier this year and the successful acquisition of Ashlynn (Yorkshire) who became part of the RFM Group in 2019.

These acquisitions further support RFM Group’s connected property offering which covers a buildings full lifecycle from consultancy and construction through to managing and maintenance.
RFM Group continues to expand and is actively looking for suitable businesses to join its growing stable of companies, https://www.rfm-group.com/meet-the-acquisition-team/