A CROSSFLATTS family company established more than half a century ago is embarking on a new phase of growth following a management buyout.

Under the move, the third generation of the family – together with one of the firm's longest-serving directors – is taking over the reins.

Primeur's former sales director, Jenny Douthwaite, becomes managing director after more than 19 years with the business.

She will be supported by buying director Rebecca Keighley and Rebecca's brother, fellow director Edward Keighley.

Ex-shareholders James Keighley and Ian Brazier will continue in their roles of chair and finance director respectively, as part of a phased retirement plan.

Primeur, based on the Castlefields Industrial Estate, is one of the UK's leading suppliers of doormats and recycled garden products.

The company was founded in 1968 by James Keighley's uncle, David Clayton.

It began life as Clayton and Strutt, and one of its first deliveries to a customer was a coir doormat which the firm still sells today.

The business became Primeur in 1997 and now supplies domestic doormats to most major retailers, whilst its recycled garden products division has seen significant growth and serves many independent garden centres.

In addition to its head office and 50,000 sq ft warehouse at Crossflatts, the 70-employee firm has recently invested in additional warehousing at Skipton to provide extra capacity for the garden products division.

The management buyout deal was supported by Neil Sengupta – of TC Murray Harcourt – who advised from a tax perspective, and Caitlin Hare and Sarah Harrison from Clarion who provided legal advice.

James Keighley says: "Having spent so many years building up a successful business my aim was always to keep it in the family and pass it on to my children so that with hard work and endeavour, they could enjoy the same opportunities that I have.

"I am proud that they – along with Jenny, one of our most experienced directors – will be taking the helm.

"They are an extremely capable team and are working towards further growth with some exciting plans ahead.

"Whilst it will very much be business as usual, it will be great to see this ‘fresh blood’ coming up with new ideas to take the company forward."

Mr Brazier says: "The management buyout will enable a seamless transition, with James and I on hand to mentor and support the new team in order to provide continuity."