Mon, 21 Jul 2025 | DIVISION SALE
Private equity firm Sullivan Street Partners has agreed to acquire the Aerostructures business of engineering group Senior plc in a carve-out deal valued at up to £200 million. The Aerostructures business has a base in Lancashire, as well as operations across the US and Asia.
The business specialises in precision-machined airframe and aero engine components and complex assemblies that are utilised for commercial aerospace, space and defence applications. Senior Aerospace Weston, the business’ UK operation, is based near Barnoldswick.
Sullivan Street said that the acquisition, which represents its biggest takeover to date, arrives at a pivotal time for the global aerospace sector, which is seeing record commercial aircraft backlogs as a result of long-term growth in the industry.
The private equity investor, which specialises in mid-market control buyouts, will pay an initial £150 million, plus costs, for the business, along with a further £50 million subject to performance targets payable in the first half of 2026. Following the acquisition, Sullivan Street plans to invest in the business, enabling it to continue expanding its capabilities and scale.
Sullivan Street Managing Partner Zeina Bain said: "We are looking forward to working closely with the management team to continue delivering exceptional customer service and growth. This is a well-established business with clear strengths and we’re excited to take this business into its next chapter and expand the reach of its high-quality capabilities."
David Squires, Chief Executive of Senior, added: "We are confident that this sale aligns with the long-term interests of our shareholders, customers, employees and other stakeholders, and we look forward to working closely with Sullivan Street to complete the transaction and effect a seamless transition."
In a statement, Senior plc said that the proceeds from the deal would be used to reduce net debt and fund a £40 million share buyback programme.
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