Gary Barnett, the founder and president of Extell Corporation, a property development firm, has emerged as the new owner of Smallbone of Devizes along with its sister businesses Mark Williamson Furniture and Brookmans. The acquisition was finalised on 29th November and brings to an end fears that the brands could cease trading. Terms were not disclosed but it is understood that all of the company’s 260 employees have been retained and that production will continue in Devizes.
Barnett commented: “Having deeply admired the company for many years, I was so keen to take this great opportunity to acquire these unique brands. Over the past ten years I have had the pleasure of working with Smallbone of Devizes on many projects such as our One57 development in Manhattan and was struck by its incredible design and making; it is rare to find this level of quality. I am looking forward to working to develop and evolve thee luxury British, hand-made furniture businesses in the UK and around the world.”
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