Finance boost

Sentry Doors has entered into a strategic partnership with Cairngorm Capital in a bid to accelerate its growth and consolidate its position in the timber fire and security door-set market.

Established in 1989, Sentry Doors is a specialist manufacturer of timber fire and security door-sets for the social housing, public sector, commercial and residential markets. Operating nationally from a 32,000ft2 facility in Doncaster, Sentry Doors has received independent third party accreditations from BWF Certifire and BM Trada Q-Mark.

This partnership will enable Sentry Doors to respond to the surge in demand for its products, driven by the increased focus on regulatory compliance and the significant retrofitting programmes, the company said. It plans to support its customers by increasing its manufacturing capacity, scaling production and improving geographic distribution.

The partnership was prompted by the decision of founder and managing director Gordon Yates and his wife Carolyn to be less involved in the day-to-day running of the business.

Gordon will remain in the business in an advisory capacity. Ty Aziz, Sentry Doors’ long-standing general manager and Gordon’s deputy, is promoted to managing director. He will be supported by a strengthened board led by Jon Gatfield, who joins as executive chairman.

Jon has considerable experience in manufacturing and logistics, including senior interim roles at Customade Group and National Timber Group.

Gordon said: “I’m delighted that Sentry Doors and Cairngorm Capital will be working together, as our sector is on the cusp of considerable change. Although I am beginning to think about retirement, it was really important to find the right partner who had the vision and ambition to guide Sentry Doors to fulfil its potential.

“I wanted an investor who would be a good custodian of Sentry Doors in the future and who would provide opportunities for our exceptional employees. Cairngorm Capital has a really strong track record in accomplishing this so I am confident that Sentry Doors will go from strength to strength.”

The transaction was led by Stuart Whiteford, investment director at Cairngorm Capital, who said: “We are particularly interested in firms that are technically focused, experts in their field, add value to their customers, and possess strong growth prospects. We are delighted to support Sentry Doors in its next stage of growth.”