TLT advises BTQ Limited on $60m US acquisition to deliver growth

Under the agreement, MSA Safety has acquired both the BTQ brands: Bristol Uniforms, the UK’s top provider of personal protective equipment (PPE) to the fire and rescue service, and Bell Apparel, a leading line of technical work wear. 

TLT has acted for BTQ for a number of years, including on the acquisition of Bell Apparel in 2015. BTQ employs nearly 200 people across four UK locations.

The transaction, which is valued at approximately US$60 million, will benefit BTQ by providing access to MSA’s global reach and its innovative fire service PPE products. 

The TLT team advising BTQ was led by corporate partners Andrew Webber and James Webb and drew upon expertise from across the firm’s practice areas. The team included Rachel Kelly (corporate); Mark Braude (tax); Ed Pitt (real estate); and Ed Lacey (banking). RSM Corporate Finance also advised BTQ. 

Ian Mitchell, joint managing director at Bristol Uniforms, says: “There’s a great synergy between these two organisations. Today’s acquisition means the Bristol brand can become even more successful outside of the UK, whilst creating new opportunities to serve our existing customer base, especially here in the UK.

“We are very grateful for TLT’s support once again, and for the team’s consistently good advice and efforts to ensure a smooth and successful transition for all.”

Andrew Webber, partner and head of corporate at UK law firm TLT, adds: “We are very pleased to continue our support for such an established and respected industry brand, particularly as this pivotal deal represents the latest step in BTQ’s ambitious growth journey.

"BTQ will benefit significantly from MSA’s pool of resources and global positioning, creating new opportunities for both Bristol Uniforms and Bell Apparel.

“MSA’s acquisition of BTQ is another example of the foreign investment we’re seeing into the UK post-Brexit and of the value and reputation British brands continue to hold on the global stage.”