Strategic market entry

Spandex expands with Lakeside Group acquisition

(L-R) Paul Cooper from Spandex and Scott Horne from Lakeside Group
(L-R) Paul Cooper from Spandex and Scott Horne from Lakeside Group

Wide-format kit and consumables reseller Spandex has acquired UK distributor Lakeside Group to expand into the safety and reflective products market.

Clevedon-based Lakeside Group serves a diverse client base, including local authorities and commercial clients, and has developed in-house testing and converting capabilities.

Its product portfolio spans reflective products for street signage, license plates, street furniture, and vehicle livery, as well as anti-graffiti coatings, dew-reducing films, and UV protective materials.

The acquisition, which was announced today (7 January), represents Spandex’s strategic entry into this market and positions the company to capitalise on this emerging sector, which it said was poised for significant growth.

Paul Cooper, chief operating officer of Spandex, said: “We’re proud to have concluded this acquisition, which enables Spandex to take an assertive step into this specialised and highly regulated market segment.

“Lakeside’s technical expertise and market knowledge perfectly complement our existing capabilities, enabling us to expand our portfolio and position Spandex as a trusted partner, ready to deliver innovative solutions for an increasingly diverse customer base.”

Scott Horne, managing director of Lakeside Group, added: “Having started in this market over 30 years ago, this integration feels like a natural evolution for Lakeside. We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring to our customers, people and the industry at large.”

Horne will continue in his role as managing director of Lakeside Group, which will operate independently in the immediate term as part of the Spandex family.