Ulster Carpets, Craigavon-based company with over 75 years of experience in carpet manufacturing announce the acquisition of Roger Oates Design which is based in Herefordshire and has a showroom in Chelsea. The purchase of this prestigious brand fits perfectly with Ulster’s philosophy of acquiring high quality businesses in the floor covering sector.

The acquisition is being funded from cash reserves and reflects Ulster’s desire to broaden the Group by selectively adding outstanding businesses where the opportunity arises.

Roger Oates Design handcrafts has its own range of distinctive fabrics for use as stair runners, and related interior furnishing products. Roger Oates Design will complement the existing Axminster and Wilton business, and Ulster remains dedicated to investing in its continued organic growth alongside this acquisition.

Ulster is committed to growing and developing this highly successful brand. Roger will remain with the company and continue to provide valuable guidance.

David Acheson, Ulster’s Head of Strategic Operations said that Ulster’s ethos and future plans very much revolve around quality, design and service excellence, and Roger Oates Design fits this perfectly. They are delighted to have secured Roger’s continued involvement, and are excited about the future prospects for the business.

Company boss Nick Coburn said the company had spent £10m on updating its operations in Craigavon. Despite the uncertainties of the macro-economics, Ulster Carpets is clearly focused on the many positive opportunities open to the company here and internationally.

As a Northern Ireland-based company they hope this contributes to a stronger level of confidence for the local economy. It's one of Northern Ireland's most well-established exporters, with major markets including the Gulf.

Roger Oates said that Roger Oates Design is delighted to become part of the Ulster Group. It is important that small unique companies keep evolving and this acquisition offers them the opportunity to grow and develop the brand for interiors and furnishing products, well into the next decade.

This transaction provides a great opportunity to grow the business, still under the watchful eye of Roger. Ulster and Roger Oates Design are a perfect fit, and will do well in the future.