John Blair

Continuing a long-standing business relationship, Lothian retained John Blair and Craig Coyle of Consilium as lead advisors in the transaction.

Lothian Building Supplies are well-established in the Scottish market as a supplier of timber, roofing, insulation, building and landscaping materials to both trade and the public. The acquisition will see JW Grant integrate Lothian into its portfolio of builders’ merchants across Scotland.

Martin Finlayson, managing director of Lothian Building Supplies, said: “Consilium have been our accountants for many years and our strong working relationship with them has been key to Lothian Building Supplies’ success. It, therefore, made perfect sense to appoint Consilium to act on our behalf.”

“Selling a business brings significant stress, and John and the team were brilliant at being a calming influence. We could not think of a safer pair of hands.”

The deal continues a successful first half of 2023 for Consilium. The Glasgow-based firm has provided lead advisory, tax advisory and financial due diligence services to shareholders and investors across multiple disposals and investments. This includes multi-million-pound investments in The Electric Heating Company and Firefish Software.

Mr Blair, who is corporate finance partner at Consilium, added: “Having supported Phil Martin (finance director) and the team to build Lothian as a business, it is hugely satisfying to see their dedication rewarded. The acquisition by JW Grant will act as a catalyst for further growth.”