In a strategic move to strengthen its Leisure Vertical, MBH Corporation plc has completed the acquisition of White Arches Caravans and White Arches Motorhomes. This development bolsters MBH Corporation’s portfolio, bringing another established business into its fold.
White Arches now joins the portfolio of MBH Corporation, which comprises 20 diverse companies spread across five countries. Alongside Robinsons Caravans, a previous acquisition in March 2020, White Arches will play a crucial role in MBH’s rapidly expanding Leisure Vertical, one of its seven distinct business sectors.
A trusted name in the caravan and motorhome sector, White Arches was established 46 years ago. The company operates two key businesses in the Northamptonshire region in the UK—White Arches Caravans based in Rushden and White Arches Motorhomes based in Wellingborough.
As the region’s leading dealer, White Arches Caravans caters to both new and used caravans, with an impressive portfolio including Swift, Bailey, Coachman, Sprite caravans, and the Swift Archway range.
White Arches Motorhomes, on the other hand, specializes in an array of motorhomes such as Adria, Bailey, Auto-Trail, and the iconic VW Campers.
The task of integrating White Arches into MBH Corporation will be overseen by Paul Seabridge, CEO of Robinsons Caravans and the MBH Corporation Leisure Vertical. Seabridge will also manage the business operations moving forward.
In terms of financials, White Arches posted an unaudited revenue of £25.1 million for the year ended September 30, 2022. The acquisition cost is estimated to be between £7 million to £8 million, a sum partly funded through debt financing of £4 million payable on completion and deferred consideration of £3-4 million over a three-year period.
Victoria Sylvester, CEO of MBH Corporation, sees this acquisition as a strategic move in a fragmented market. She commented, “With White Arches joining Robinsons Caravans within the MBH Leisure Vertical, the MBH offering within the caravan and motorhome sector becomes even stronger—with many synergies and best practices to be shared.”
“Our objective remains to become the number one caravans and motorhome group in the UK providing an excellent experience for customers and for our own employees.”
Paul Seabridge also expressed optimism, noting, “With the continued interest in owning caravans and motorhomes in the UK, we feel that the timing is right for White Arches to become part of a larger group that already has extensive experience in this sector.”
“The MBH agglomeration model allows us to continue to grow the White Arches business organically, whilst collaborating and networking with experienced business leaders across a whole range of sectors within the group, both in the UK and internationally. The opportunities for further growth are exciting,” he added.
It’s fantastic to see MBH Corporation expand in the leisure sector through the acquisition of White Arches. Leveraging White Arches’ expertise to introduce innovative products and services will certainly strengthen MBH’s position in the caravan and motorhome industry. This strategic move seems promising, and I look forward to seeing how MBH Corporation enhances its offerings and customer experience in the leisure sector.