Industry News

After 25 years Charles Ainsworth is standing down as managing director of The Montrose Group. Liam Wheeler, the current financial director, will take over in this role. 

Charles Ainsworth established Montrose Fasteners in 1991 by management buyout. Operating from a small warehouse on the Slough Trading Estate, it employed six people. Today the Montrose Group employs more than seventy staff and has a turnover in excess of GB£10 million. The group has expanded by strong organic growth and by acquisition. In addition to its main facility in High Wycombe, Montrose operates from Bedford and has recently acquired Thunderbolts in Southampton. During its 25 years Montrose has developed an enviable reputation as experts in stock management systems for a wide spectrum of quality and service critical market sectors. It also specialises in stainless steel, aluminium and other non-ferrous materials.

Charles sold the business in December 2016 to the Bufab Group, the Swedish headquartered, global supplier chain partner for fasteners and C-Parts, with operations in twenty-six countries around the world.

Writing to thank Montrose employees for their many years of loyalty and commitment, Charles said: ‘’Since December, when we sold Montrose to Bufab, we have been getting to know our new owners. At the time there were several other interested parties wanting to acquire Montrose, but I am pleased to say that the choice was a good one. Bufab shares many of our values and they want us to succeed. I am pleased to say they continue to demonstrate their support and commitment to Montrose and its staff. I am therefore confident Montrose remains in good hands.’’

Charles will be taking on a new role as director of business development, leading Bufab’s efforts to acquire other businesses in the United Kingdom.