SOLD : Distributor of precision made clocks and weather instruments

New Hands for the Clock and Environmental Measurement Business. The business of Fine Carriage Clocks (now known as F.C.C.) was established around 35 years ago and supplies precision made clocks and weather instruments and has become particularly well regarded in the marine sector. Look in any chandlery and you are likely to find the traditional brass clocks bearing the F.C.C. name. The range of products supplied has grown over the years to include barometers, barographs, weather stations, thermometers, hydrometers and now tide clocks all for use at sea or on dry land.

Operating from a base in north mid-Cornwall the business has been owned by Nick Lilley, a former airline pilot, since 1995 but he has had it managed for him by a very long serving member of staff with Nick just having an overseeing role. However, with that staff member deciding it was time to retire, Nick decided to do likewise and give him time to focus on other enterprises and hobbies.
Through a recommendation by his accountant, Nick decided to instruct the Exeter based specialist business transfer agency Beardsley Theobalds (www.beardsleytheobalds.co.uk and tel: 01392 253071) to handle the sale. With it being such an attractive product range and relatively simple process of import, manufacture and distribution, the business attracted great interest from a variety of potential buyers from across the country. With such strong interest the business was sold for a figure at above the marketing price and the purchasers secured their position and gained themselves exclusivity by lodging a non-refundable deposit with the agent.

The purchasers are husband and wife Roger and Jacqueline Bennison who will continue to run the business in north mid-Cornwall. Roger’s precision engineering background attracted him to the product range and will serve him well in some of the assembly work that is involved. Additionally, Roger is a member of the Institute of Environmental Management and with their experience in sales, nationally and internationally they stand in a good position to be able to develop the business.