Direct Healthcare Group grows with new acquisition

Direct Healthcare Group (“DHG”) has completed the acquisition of Kirton Healthcare, the UK’s leading manufacturer of specialist seating products.

Based in Caerphilly, DHG specialises in the development of clinically effective solutions for harm-free patient care. With 190 employees and turnover of £21m, the group consists of award-winning pressure area care business Direct Healthcare Services and bariatric rental specialist, Nightingale Care Beds.

Kirton Healthcare is the Group’s second acquisition since private equity firm NorthEdge Capital supported an MBO in April 2016.

Kirton, based in Haverhill, has more than 30 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of specialist seating solutions for a range of healthcare sectors. Kirton has developed a reputation as a market leader and is renowned for its specialist chairs, which are configured to suit a range of patient requirements and provide postural support and increased patient independence.

Graham Ewart, Managing Director of Direct Healthcare Group, commented: “Kirton’s offering will fit seamlessly with the Group’s existing product and service portfolio and will allow us to provide more products and solutions to our UK customers, whilst growing our international footprint. Direct Healthcare Group and Kirton share a customer and patient-centric ethos and are both committed to supporting healthcare professionals deliver harm free patient care.

“We are delighted to acquire such a well-respected brand and highly committed team. We are also pleased to be able to extend best value to all our customers in the increasingly demanding area of specialist seating.

The AJ Way brand will still be available through Kirton Healthcare and AJ Way will continue trading as an NVM portfolio company.