A SUPPLIER of healthcare and cleaning products to care homes has been acquired by a workplace hygiene services provider.

The sale of Countrywide Healthcare Supplies is the first deal for Manchester-headquartered corporate finance practice Vertex, which was established earlier this year.

Countrywide Healthcare has its offices, warehouse and distribution centre at a 110,000sq ft base in Grimethorpe and has been supplying care homes across the UK with healthcare products along with interior design and fit-out services since its inception 28 years ago.

The business, which has more than 130 staff, is led by managing director Sarah Robinson and finance director Richard Hannah.

Its sale to PHS Group provides an exit for founder and former chairman Alastair Kitching and co-director Jeremy Gilson.

Sarah said: “We are excited to join forces with PHS Group and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.

“This marks a new chapter for Countrywide Healthcare, but it remains business as usual and our day-to-day operations will not change.

“We wish Alastair and Jeremy all the best as they enjoy a well-deserved early retirement.

“We believe that this partnership will deliver more opportunities for service excellence and growth, which in turn will provide increased benefits for our respective customers.”