Yorkshire-based Merrie England acquired by local investors

Merrie England, a chain of Yorkshire coffee shops and drive-thru, has been acquired by Gary Conway and his team, including local investors Adam Sayers, Ian Coumont, and Anne Coumont.

Established for over five decades, the six longstanding shops across Huddersfield, Brighouse, and Halifax are cemented within the communities, providing a familiar, inviting, and comforting space to eat and drink.
Under the management of the Hanselman family, Merrie England has maintained an esteemed reputation in the local community. However, in a strategic move to secure the future of the business, the family have decided that the company could reach new heights under fresh leadership, building on the success achieved so far.

Gary will lead the business into its next exciting chapter, utilising his vast experience in the food and beverage industry to take the business further. Gary comments: “We recognised what a great brand and offering Merrie England has within the local community. The Hanselman family have done a fantastic job in building a reputable brand that is recognised locally for its strong food, coffee and service. We are excited to be the new custodians of Merrie England and to take it from strength to strength.”

Poonam Kaur, CEO of fds Director Services, an award-winning corporate finance boutique based in Wakefield, led the deal, acting on behalf of the Hanselman family. Kaur comments: “This acquisition marks a new chapter in the Merrie England story. The company has become an integral part of the Huddersfield, Brighouse, and Halifax communities, and it was crucial to preserve what has been established. I am confident that with Gary's investment and a new management team, the brand will broaden its presence and product range while remaining faithful to the traditions that have contributed to Merrie England's long-standing success."

The Hanselman Family comments: “We are incredibly proud as a family of the business built to date and the great team working in the business, both past and present. We are excited to see what Gary and the team will further accomplish with Merrie England and have full confidence in them. Having fds as our advisor provided great comfort; Poonam was always on hand with guidance, support, and advice and was mindful of how big of a change this was for us as a family.”

Gary and his team are excited to grow the brand further and to increase its offering beyond its traditional heartland so that new customers can also enjoy the Merrie England experience.