Published on: 10th January 2023
Van den Borne, a technical wholesaler specializing in water pumps and irrigation systems, has finalized the acquisition of KAR UK, the UK’s largest wholesaler of irrigation equipment.
Founded in 1978, KAR UK has grown into the largest wholesale supplier of irrigation equipment in the
UK. The company, a family business built on a reputation for outstanding service, has built its success on
long-term relationships with most major irrigation equipment manufacturers of note, alongside
unmatched industry knowledge and know-how.
The combined company’s supplier base will contain some of the most renowned brands in the industry
and it will boast an industry-leading product portfolio. Additionally, the acquisition promises synergies
that will significantly benefit customers, employees and suppliers.
Jelle van Geel, managing director of Van den Borne, says: “We are very excited about the acquisition
of KAR UK. This acquisition enables us to continue our growth, as well as our development towards
becoming the preferred wholesaler in all our markets. KAR UK’s values, as well as its position as a
reliable partner for customers and suppliers, tightly align with our own, making them a natural fit to join
our company.”
Alex Pfeffer, owner of KAR UK, says: “We at KAR UK are delighted about the acquisition by Van den Borne
and I see this as a fundamental next step for our company. We are happy to have found a partner that can
continue our growth path, and that can take the company to the next level, while preserving its identity
and the working environment for our employees. After the acquisition, KAR UK will continue to operate
from its’ base in Manchester in the same manner but also benefit from the support of Van den Borne. We
are excited about the future and cannot wait to get started realizing our shared ambitions.”
As the acquisition closes, Jade Tomlinson will take on the role of managing director at KAR UK,
succeeding Alex Pfeffer. Jade has been working at KAR UK for more than 14 years and is currently
the deputy director. Reporting to Jelle van Geel, she will be responsible for the further growth and
development of KAR UK.
For any questions regarding the acquisition, please reach out to
Jade Tomlinson KAR UK jade@karuk.com
Jelle van Geel Van den Borne j.vangeel@vandenborne.nl
