Forden Concrete Products Limited

Region
Mid Wales
Type of finance
Loan
Business need
Growing a business
Size
SME
Investment
Up to £50,000
Forden Concrete Solutions Limited

A £45,000 loan from the Development Bank of Wales has supported the management buy-out of Forden Concrete Products Limited, enabling long-standing employee Shane Clee to acquire the business and secure its future under Welsh ownership. 

The challenge

Founded in 1978, Forden Concrete Products Limited is a well-established manufacturer supplying the dairy and agricultural sectors with high-quality precast concrete products. 

When founder Geoffrey Jarman decided to step back, the business required a succession solution that would protect its legacy, retain jobs and allow the company to continue trading with confidence. 

For Shane Clee, who joined the business in 2001, the opportunity to lead a management buy-out represented a significant step—but one that required external finance and expert support to complete successfully. 

Development Bank of Wales support

The Development Bank of Wales provided a £45,000 loan to part-fund the management buy-out, helping Shane Clee purchase the business from its founder. The funding was delivered through the £500 million Wales Flexible Investment Fund, which supports Welsh businesses with loans, mezzanine finance and equity investment. 

Beyond funding, the Development Bank worked closely with Shane throughout the process, providing guidance and reassurance from start to finish. 

The outcome

The investment has ensured continuity for a long-established Welsh manufacturer that employs local people and supplies customers across the UK through a network of 24 agents. Under new ownership, the business plans to build on its strong reputation while diversifying its product range, including the introduction of concrete wall panels for domestic and commercial garden use.

The management buy-out has safeguarded the future of the business, supported local employment and positioned Forden Concrete Products Limited for its next phase of growth. 

What the Business said

“After 24 years with Forden, this is a great opportunity to take on the business myself and work with our close-knit team to continue doing what we love and know best… we wouldn’t be doing it without the help of the Development Bank. From start to finish, they have been brilliant and I’m very grateful for their support, advice and reassurance throughout the process.”
Shane Clee, Director, Forden Concrete Products Limited