ThinCats backs merger to create UK’s leading integrated online flower retailer – London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

ThinCats the leading alternative finance provider to mid-sized SMEs has supported the merger of Prestige Flowers, the UK’s most reviewed online florist, with Flowerline, a prominent flower procurement, packing and distribution business, with a significant capital injection in a deal advised by Park Place.

Established in 2013, Prestige Flowers has been at the forefront of online flower retail for the last decade.

Its partnership with Flowerline has enabled it to provide next day delivery of fresh flowers and gift hampers, distributing over 1 million bouquets nationwide every year.

Prestige, based in Halifax, and Flowerline, based in Mansfield, source flowers from farms that support not only the growers, but their local communities as well, both globally and in Britain. This helps to maintain and grow the UK farming industry.

A recipient of the Ethical Company Award for multiple years, the group has consistently achieved a perfect 100/100 ethical score rating, underscoring their dedication to sustainable practices and ethical standards.

The business has performed very well financially in the last few years and this new funding enables the businesses to come together as well as supporting the next phase of growth.

Ben Kimball, Senior Director, ThinCats said, “Prestige and Flowerline have built an incredible reputation for quality and their commitment to sustainability is evident in the initiatives they support. It was a pleasure working with the expert team at Park Place, who were excellent throughout the process. We are excited to be part of the Prestige and Flowerline’s journeys and see them going from strength to strength.”

Simon Crowther, CEO, Prestige said, “Prestige Flowers has always been driven by a passion for delivering outstanding quality and service to our customers, upholding the highest ethical standards.

“This merger with Flowerline is a natural step in our growth, strengthening our ability to source, pack, and distribute flowers and gifts with speed and care. With the support of ThinCats and the expertise of Park Place, we are excited for this new chapter, well positioned to bring even greater value to our customers and advance our commitment to sustainable business practices.

Julian Ridgard, CEO, Flowerline said, “For Flowerline, this merger marks a significant milestone in our long-standing relationship with Prestige Flowers, which has been built over many years of trust, collaboration, and shared success. Our journey together has been one of mutual growth and innovation.

This merger not only strengthens our position in the market but also aligns with our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. We look forward to this new chapter as a unified company, continuing to provide exceptional products and services. Thank you to our dedicated teams and loyal customers for their continued support as we embark on this exciting new venture together.

Ben Peacock, Partner, Park Place said: “Prestige and Flowerline are hugely impressive businesses in their own right, and having worked more closely in recent years, a combination of the businesses became compelling for the shareholders. Just as importantly the quality and service provided to customers will be further enhanced by the merger as the businesses work together seamlessly.”

A multi-disciplinary team from Squire Patton Boggs including Corporate Partners David Milne and Paul Mann, Corporate Director Rebecca Holden and Banking Partner Tom Telford provide legal advice on the merger and fundraising. Jon Robinson of Parisi Tax provided tax advice. Clarion provided legal advice to Thincats.