Pannone has advised on the acquisition of Tate-Smith Limited, a wholesaler of soft and alcoholic drinks, by Deckers Hospitality Group.

The 138-year-old North Yorkshire company, which has been family owned for six generations, was sold to Deckers for an undisclosed sum. Deckers is a family-run hospitality, wholesale, and e-commerce business, and led by siblings Maxwell Brierley and Victoria Cosgrove.

Pannone acted as legal adviser to Deckers. The team was led by Corporate Partner, Tom Hall, with support from Belinda Cheung and Sam Roberts.

Tom Hall commented: “This deal is the coming together of two excellent family-run businesses, to create a Northern powerhouse in the drinks wholesale sector.

“With a strong heritage, deep market insight and a firm regional footprint, Tate-Smith adds an extra dimension to the Deckers brand. It forms part of an ambitious growth strategy, as the business looks to expand its presence across wholesale, hospitality and e-commerce, and we’re delighted to have played a part in this latest acquisition.”

As part of the deal, Tate-Smith Limited will continue to trade under its own name. All current staff will remain in place and Harry Tate-Smith will continue working in the business to support its future development as Trading Director.

Maxwell Brierley of Deckers Hospitality Group added: “Like us Tate-Smith is a family-run business with an impressive history. We felt it was the perfect fit for us as we continue to develop and grow our portfolio, and we welcome them to our family.”

Photo credit: SergeyKlopotov