Direct Healthcare Group (DHG), a private equity-backed manufacturer of pressure care solutions, has completed the acquisition of Qbitus Products.
Qbitus was founded more than thirty years ago and supplies bespoke, pressure relieving cushions to the NHS and Wheelchair Services.
Based in Caerphilly, DHG specialises in the development of clinically effective solutions for the delivery of harm-free patient care. The Group expects to grow turnover to GBP24m in the current year and has increased headcount from 62 to 180 since NorthEdge Capital supported an MBO in April 2016.
This latest bolt-on represents DHG’s fourth acquisition in 24 months. In addition to Qbitus Products, the Group now consists of award-winning pressure care management business Direct Healthcare Services, bariatric rental specialist Nightingale Care Beds, specialist seating product manufacturer Kirton Healthcare, and pressure care brand Transflo Cushion.
Graham Ewart, CEO of Direct Healthcare Group, says: “The acquisition of Qbitus Products is a fantastic opportunity that complements our current portfolio. The synergies with our DHS pressure care and Kirton specialist seating portfolio, through the provision of Qbitus’ highly bespoke, pressure relieving cushions, deliver an offering that is truly unique.
“Qbitus has worked incredibly hard to establish the company as a market leader and have built a strong reputation for quality and customer service. Through this acquisition, we will continue to provide the quality and individually unique products that is expected of Qbitus, whilst taking the business into its next phase of growth. The acquisition will allow us to provide more products and solutions to our customers, whilst enhancing clinical support and service.”
Andy Skinner, Investment Director at NorthEdge Capital, says: “Direct Healthcare Group has achieved strong growth since our initial investment two years ago. The team, led by Graham Ewart, has made a number of strategic acquisitions to strengthen its product and service offering, and we are pleased that this has culminated in the Group’s four bolt-on acquisitions to date.”
