Shropshire Star

ATG Access on the block as terror fears boost growth

The bollard maker is for sale as demand for its counter-terrorism measures increases.

Published
Bollards outside football stadium

Security equipment manufacturer ATG Access has been put up for sale as demand for its bollards and road blockers increases amid the global terror threat, it can be revealed.

The Press Association understands that the Merseyside-based company is likely to be sold to a trade buyer for at least £30 million after appointing advisers from KPMG to oversee the process.

A handful of bidders are thought to be circling the company, which makes permanent and temporary barriers to protect crowded spaces.

The firm has seen a pick-up in demand over recent years due to a string of high-profile vehicle-based terror attacks.

Its bollards and barriers have been used at events and venues including Premier League football matches, the Proms and shopping centres.

In its most recent results for the year ending April 30 2018, ATG recorded a 12% increase in turnover to £17.5 million. Underlying earnings nearly doubled to £1.5 million.

The company expects to double earnings again in the current financial year to £3 million, having already reached £1.75 million in the first five months. Turnover is set to hit £22 million.

It now supplies permanent and temporary security products to 42 countries.

ATG received a significant minority investment from LDC, the private equity arm of Lloyds Banking Group, in 2013. The deal valued the company at less than £20 million.

KPMG and LDC declined to comment.

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