A Gloucestershire tools business says its long-term future is secure following a management buyout – but has confirmed 30 jobs are now at risk as it restructures.
Bosses at shearing and clipping tool manufacturer Lister have completed a management buyout from former American parent company Wahl. Lister says the move “ensures the long-term future of the Stonehouse business, keeping it firmly rooted in Gloucestershire while continuing to export its products worldwide”.
The buyout was led by managing director Sebastian Goodison, sales director Martin Booth, finance director Eva Saldana and operations director Kryspin Skabek. They say the move will give the business more autonomy to invest in new products and technology.
Mr Goodison said: “This is an incredibly exciting moment for Listers, our employees, and our customers. By taking ownership of the business, we are securing its future and ensuring that we remain committed to the values and craftsmanship that have defined us for more than 100 years.
“We are immensely proud of our Gloucestershire roots and look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence in shearing and clipping tools”.
Mr Goodison said the business would be changing the way it operates, meaning 30 roles in the business are at risk of redundancy.
He said: “We understand that this news will create uncertainty for those involved, and we want to reassure our employees that we are committed to managing this process with transparency, fairness, and respect for all involved. The hard work and dedication of our staff has played an invaluable part in the business's success to-date, and we will work together to support everyone during this period.”
He added: “We want to thank Wahl for their stewardship and for enabling us to take this next step in Lister’s evolution. Our entire team is energised by the opportunities ahead as we embark on this new chapter.”
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