Draper, Inc., has announced the acquisition of a majority shareholding in blind manufacturer Guthrie Douglas (GD).
Established in 1981 in Warwickshire, U.K., Guthrie Douglas is a family business and a team of specialist engineers focused on creating specialty shading systems for a variety of spaces. The GD product range is known globally as a reliable solution for shading technically challenging windows and is frequently specified on some of the world’s most prominent buildings.
“We’re excited to welcome Guthrie Douglas to the Draper family,” states Chris Broome, president, Draper, Inc. “Their team has built a reputation for solving tough shading challenges, and their specialty systems are a perfect fit for the kinds of projects our customers are tackling. This partnership gives us the opportunity to bring their solutions to the U.S. market while supporting their continued growth globally. We’re looking forward to what we can accomplish together.”
Guthrie Douglas Acquisition Represents Draper’s Investment in the Growth of the Company
Established in 1902, Draper is a fifth-generation family-owned business and a manufacturer of shading solutions, LED video wall mounting systems, projection screens, projector lifts and sports hall equipment—all made at its headquarters and production facility in Spiceland, Indiana. Draper employs over 750 people.
According to Draper, in addition to acquiring a majority stake in Guthrie Douglas, it is investing in a growth plan for the company, with significant investments to be made across the business—from sales and specification to product development and customer service. Draper will also offer GD products to the U.S. market.
Guthrie Douglas will continue to be managed as an independent business, with Andrew Kitching remaining as managing director, and the current management team remaining in place on a permanent basis. Chris Broome and Jerry Crone (CFO) will join the board.
“In today’s world, it is increasingly difficult to find like-minded businesses with similar values, and we are fortunate to have found a partner who shares our excitement and belief in the growth potential of our company,” adds Andrew Kitching, managing director of Guthrie Douglas. “I have no doubt that with the team we have in place here, and now with the backing of Draper, GD will scale up significantly in the coming years.”
