W&R Barnett buys majority shareholding in major KBB maker
Belfast-based W&R Barnett acquires majority shareholding in Symphony Group
Sentio has advised on the sale of a majority shareholding in The Symphony Group to Belfast-based W&R Barnett for an undisclosed sum.
The Symphony Group was founded in 1971 and is one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of fitted kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture under its Laura Ashley Fitted Furniture, Gallery, Linear, Koncept and Urbano brands. The Symphony Group supplies nationally to private developers, social housing providers, merchants and independent retailers. With a turnover of more than £325m in 2024, the Symphony Group employs over 1800 people on four sites in Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire, with a reputation for outstanding customer service, inspirational design and a commitment to sustainability.
W&R Barnett is a fourth-generation family business committed to owning and investing in successful operating businesses and their employees. Founded in 1896, the W&R Barnett group has grown from its origins as a grain merchant in Northern Ireland to a group of commodity trading and industrial businesses across the globe.
The current beneficial owners of the Symphony Group, Doug Gregory and his family, will retain a significant share in the business and be represented at board level. Recently appointed Managing Director, Paul Whitehouse, who has been with the business for 23 years, will continue to lead the Symphony executive team.
