Runcorn-based workwear and textile firm Johnson Service Group (JSG) said it acquired Ireland-based Harkglade Limited and its subsidiaries Celtic Linen Limited and Millbrook Linen Limited for about £27.1 million. 

“Celtic Linen services the Republic of Ireland’s Healthcare and Hotel, Restaurant and Catering (HORECA) sectors; it is the largest linen supplier to the Republic of Ireland’s Healthcare sector and is the second largest linen supplier to the HORECA sector,” said Johnson.

Johnson said Celtic Linen had revenue of €29.0 million in the financial year ended January 1, 2023.

“Acquisition expected to be immediately earnings enhancing and in-line with our stated strategy of seeking out value accretive acquisitions and expanding our geographic coverage,” said Johnson.

“Further diversification of our customer base, with over 50% of Celtic Linen’s revenue derived from the healthcare sector.”

Celtic Linen’s management team will remain with the business, which has 350 employees.

Johnson Service Group CEO Peter Egan said: “We are delighted to have completed the acquisition of Celtic Linen, which represents a further significant step in our strategy to expand the range and scale of services we offer. 

“I have known Celtic Linen for many years and have been very impressed with the quality of the business, its reputation for excellent customer service and the growth it has achieved in recent years. 

“The existing senior management team will remain with the business with Joanne Somers, Managing Director of Celtic Linen, reporting directly to myself.  It gives me great pleasure to welcome each and every employee of Celtic Linen to the group.”

The majority shareholder of Celtic Linen was Causeway Capital Partners, a private equity firm. Other shareholders included Celtic Linen management.