Shoosmiths guides 4D Capital Partners on the acquisition of JJO PLC

Law firm Shoosmiths has advised private equity firm 4D Capital Partners the acquisition of JJO PLC, a prominent UK-based manufacturer of kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture.

Established in 1868, JJO has grown to become one of the UK’s largest specialist furniture manufacturers and operates from a modern 1.2m square foot production facility, employing around 300 staff locally. The company has been family-owned for much of its history and Stephen Greenhalgh will remain on the board as a non-executive director.

The Shoosmiths deal team was led by corporate partner Dan Shilvock, supported by principal associate Leah Cairney, senior associate Kendra McCullough and associate Jai Pannum. Further banking support was provided by partner Natalie Barnes and associate Anna Riley, and on the real estate side partner Judy Fawcett and senior associate Michael Earnshaw-Beattie. 

Alex Silk, founder of 4D Capital, commented: “We are excited to be investing in JJO PLC and are honoured to become the new owners of this long-established business, renowned for excellence in manufacturing bespoke furniture. From the outset, we have been highly impressed by the talent of the team, the scope of the company’s operations and its growth potential. We are confident that, with our support, JJO can achieve even greater heights. We would also like to extend our gratitude to Shoosmiths for their invaluable support throughout.”

Dan Shilvock, corporate partner and relationship partner for 4D Capital, added: "We are delighted to have advised 4D Capital on the acquisition of JJO PLC and are looking forward to seeing the development of Hepworth Clay under 4D’s stewardship. This is a landmark deal that has capped a busy summer for 4D Capital after completing the carve out and investment into Canova Clay earlier this year. It was fantastic to work on both of these deals and we are looking forward to continuing the strong relationship we have with 4D.”

In 2024, Shoosmiths’ private equity team advised on 60 deals with an aggregate value of £5bn+ and an average deal value of £86m right across the mid-market. Corporate is one of Shoosmiths’ key strategic pillars, and across the division, its team has bolstered its market-leading credentials and reputation for excellence in mid-market M&A, advising on over 400 transactions each year.