11 May 2010

Crown buys distributor as Allied family sells up

Kitchen distributor Allied Kingswood has been bought by Kent-based furniture manufacturer Crown Products. 
Allied and Crown have a 30-year trading relationship and Allied has remained a major distributor of Crown's kitchen and bedroom ranges. Allied was founded in 1946 by the late Jack Joseph. The decision to sell was made by his daughter, Sarena, who said she believed that it was the best way to secure the future of the business
Crown's md Michael Head, says: "The purchasemarks an exciting time in the history of the company. It means we are well-placed to continue supplyingwhat consumers want, and add real value to retailers."
He adds: "The acquisition ensures the ongoing future development of the company and we look forward to developing the long-term relationships with both customers and suppliers."
Former Allied md Stephen Joseph, who retired in 2009 after 40 years with the company, has returned to Allied after a period as ceo with Theobald's Distribution. 
He says: "Michael and I have worked together for over 30 years and he has asked me to help with managing the business and this I have agreed to do."