Management Buyout at Agar Scientific

The management team at microscopy consumables company Agar Scientific Ltd is delighted to announce the successful completion of a management buyout of the business from Elektron Technology plc.

The MBO has been led by Darren Likely, who returns to the business as Managing Director, Rob Yeo, Operations Director and Paul Light, Finance Director along with the support of Paul Bennett, eCommerce & Marketing Manager and Paul Balas, Technical Sales Manager plus the backing and guidance of Foresight Group, a leading private equity firm.

Agar Scientific specialises in electron microscopy consumables and accessories, and was founded in 1978 by Alan Agar to provide quality test specimens, TEM grids and EM filaments to electron microscopists. From its offices and laboratories in Stansted, Essex, Agar Scientific distributes globally, both directly to end users or through its extensive and growing network of distributors. The company prides itself on providing excellent quality products and service to its international customer base.

Agar Scientific employs exceptionally dedicated and skilled members of staff, many of whom are experts in their field. The business will continue to operate from its present Stansted facility and with more focus and resources the team look forward to continuing to deliver an excellent level of service for its customers.

Agar recognises the importance of microscopy in the future of scientific research and development. The management team are confident the acquisition of Agar Scientific will enable them to introduce new product initiatives while continuing to provide a high quality service to its customers.

Darren Likely, Agar Scientific Managing Director, commented: “Agar has huge potential. The Company will continue to focus on providing excellent products and services for its customers. Whilst maintaining and promoting service levels, we plan to improve the product range and customer engagement through online channels whilst also improving our global reach. I am excited to be working as part of an excellent team, providing Agar with the management skills and commitment to support our business plans.”

Matthew Smith, Foresight Investment Director, commented: “Agar already has a market leading brand and a long history of delivering high-quality products and services levels to its customers. We look forward to working with the management team to grow the business over the coming years, increasing the range of services provided to customers.”