The Huddersfield-based Exertis division supplies office consumables, printing hardware, furniture and related products. It,was put up for sale in December as part of Exertis UK’s wider restructuring.

VOW is a lbusiness supplies wholesaler serving resellers and corporate customers across the UK and Ireland. It is part of the evo Group, which provides sourcing, fulfilment, distribution and logistics services to business and public sector organisations.

An Exertis UK spokesperson said: “As indicated in our statement a few days ago, we have now signed an agreement with evo, the UK and Ireland’s leading multi-channel supplier of business supplies and personal needs products, based in Normanton, West Yorkshire.

“As a result, all employees of Exertis Supplies who have not applied for voluntary redundancy will move to evo’s Vow subsidiary when the transaction completes, which we expect to happen within about two weeks. We are delighted for colleagues who will now be continuing their employment with evo/Vow.”

The deal follows a major redundancy programme at Exertis UK after the distributor was sold by former owner DCC plc to private equity firm Aurelius. A review of Exertis UK’s 1,200-strong workforce concluded last week, with the company confirming that fewer than 400 employees will face involuntary redundancy.

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/exertis-secures-new-jobs-for-exertis-supplies-division-staff/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/exertis-final-redundancy-count-expected-to-be-400/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/exertis-final-redundancy-count-expected-to-be-400/#respond Mon, 26 Jan 2026 12:19:13 +0000 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/?p=179687 Around 400 Exertis UK employees now face involuntary redundancy, compared with the more than 1,000 job losses originally feared. 

The distributor is also in an advanced consultation process with another company, which may see a large number of staff transfer to a new employer as it transitions to a more games-focused portfolio.

An Exertis spokesperson told Mobile News the employee consultation process, concluded last Friday, had been “challenging, but ultimately productive in the circumstances we inherited from our previous owner”.

“During this process, which put all employees at risk, our objective was from the beginning to mitigate hardship,” the spokesperson said. “We enabled an early voluntary redundancy programme, on terms above statutory requirements, to give people more time to seek alternative employment.

“We are also embarking on a new business staffing model, focusing on becoming a specialist, independent distributor. The end result of our efforts is that fewer than 400 employees now face involuntary redundancy at Exertis UK, rather than the more than 1,000 we originally feared.”

Exertis UK’s ongoing restructuring follows several years of weak financial performance, with the business having failed to generate sustainable profits and remaining cash-flow negative well before its acquisition from DCC, according to industry sources familiar with the situation.

Once one of the UK channel’s largest players, Exertis UK has been operating with minimal resilience in a market defined by high volumes and tight margins. Insiders say profitability hovered around break-even for years and deteriorated further in the period leading up to the sale.

Sources close to the transaction suggest the UK arm lagged other parts of the wider group, some of which were performing more strongly at the time. The UK business was widely regarded as underperforming and over-layered from a management perspective, leaving it poorly equipped to absorb demand swings or margin pressure.

The restructuring process triggered alarm across the channel after initial proposals suggested a dramatic reduction in headcount from a workforce previously numbering around 1,200. Those figures are now understood to have been an opening position under UK consultation rules, rather than a final outcome.

The distributor, once one of the UK channel’s largest players, has been operating with minimal resilience in a market defined by high volumes and tight margins. Insiders say the business had been under sustained pressure, with profitability hovering around break-even for years and deteriorating further in the period leading up to the sale.

Sources close to the transaction suggest the UK arm contrasted sharply with other parts of the wider group, some of which were performing more strongly at the time.

Underperforming

The UK business, however, was widely regarded as underperforming and over-layered from a management perspective, leaving it poorly equipped to respond to shifts in demand or margin pressure.

The current consultation process has triggered widespread concern across the channel after initial proposals suggested a dramatic reduction in headcount from a workforce previously numbering around 1,200. Those figures, however, are understood to represent an opening position required under UK consultation rules, rather than a final outcome.

People familiar with the process stress that no decisions on the future scale of the business will be made until the consultation concludes. This is expected to happed towards the end of January. The final structure could differ materially from early projections, depending on discussions with employees, customers, and vendor partners.

Management

While the existing C-Suite executive leadership team has largely exited day-to-day roles, the company continues to operate under an interim structure, with senior managers stepping up to ensure continuity during the consultation period. Operational management is said to remain in place, despite the departure of the former C-suite.

Exertis UK is expected to emerge as a smaller, more specialised distributor, focusing on a narrower set of product categories. The product lines and vendor relationships that will form the core of the future business has yet to be determined and remains subject to consultation outcomes.

Industry observers note that Exertis UK’s situation highlights the fragility of large-scale distribution models in the current market, where small margin shifts can quickly destabilise even high-volume operations. While the business can perform well when conditions are right, sources say the lack of margin headroom leaves little room for error if volumes fall or costs rise.

For now, stakeholders across the channel remain in a holding pattern, with vendors, customers, and partners awaiting clarity on the distributor’s future shape once the consultation process concludes.

The UK technology distributor has informed staff of plans that could reduce headcount from approximately 1,200 employees to around 130, subject to consultation.

The proposals primarily affect the Exertis UK Business & Consumer and Exertis Supplies divisions, with sites in Burnley, Harlow, Elland and Basingstoke impacted. Employees have entered a 45-day consultation period.

In a statement, Exertis said: “Exertis has the opportunity to change structurally and transform into a more agile and specialist distributor that can more efficiently and effectively serve customers’ needs. As a result, employees are entering into a period of consultation. No final decisions have been made, and they will use the consultation period to discuss viable alternatives to potential redundancies. They will work closely with the employee representatives to find alternative options, and all UK employees are given as much information and support as possible during this difficult time. We are confident in the professionalism of our UK team to continue delivering for our partners during the consultation perio

The company stressed that the proposals apply only to certain UK divisions and do not affect all businesses included in the acquisition.

In July. CEO Tim Griffin told Mobile News

“While change always brings ambiguity, I’m comfortable and excited about the opportunities Aurelius presents. DCC was a fantastic owner, but this new chapter is about investing in the future and unlocking potential.”

Aurelius, which completed the purchase of Exertis IT and related divisions earlier this year for around £100 million, has said structural changes are intended to improve efficiency and long-term sustainability, but has not commented on the number of roles at risk.

The proposals follow reports of credit and supplier pressures at Exertis in recent months, alongside senior management departures shortly after the acquisition.

Local MPs have begun seeking clarity on the potential impact on jobs and regional economies, particularly in Basingstoke, as the consultation process gets underway. (More follows)

Financial terms have not been disclosed but are estimated to be around £150 million, based on annual revenues and EBITDA. The divestment is expected to be earnings neutral for DCC Technology, which plans to use the proceeds to reduce debt and reinvest in growth areas.

The businesses included in the deal are Exertis UK Business and Consumer divisions, Hypertec, Exertis Supplies, Exertis Ireland, Macro EV, Exertis Supply Chain Services, MTR, and Ztorm.

The sale allows parent company DCC Technology to focus on the faster-growing Pro Tech and Life Tech sectors.

Tim Griffin, CEO at Exertis IT said: “We are delighted to have found new owners who are committed to accelerating our growth, and that of our partners through dedicated focus and investment. I firmly believe this sale positions Exertis IT for long-term success and provides greater opportunities for our vendors, customers and our people. It’s business as usual for us providing an exceptional portfolio and industry-leading operations.”?  

“The transaction is expected to complete in the fourth quarter of this calendar year, subject to regulatory clearance and DCC remains firmly committed to supporting the Exertis IT businesses during this time, ensuring a successful transition to the new owne”.

DCC announced seven months ago it planned to get out of the IT distribution sector and to put Exertis up for sale. 

AURELIUS is a Munich-based set up n 2005 by Dirk Markus and Gert Purkert and has grown into a prominent global investor with around 300 deals iunder its belt. It specialises in mid-market buyouts of companies with annual revenues of at least €100 million.Their style is to make operational improvements, with round180 in-house specialists who work on post-acquisition growth.

DCC Technology acquired Exertis in 2021 and positioned the company as one of Europe’s largest tech distributors. The Info Tech segment serves traditional IT hardware and consumer channels, but DCC now intends to concentrate its resources on specialist areas such as professional AV (Pro Tech) and Life Tech solutions, where it sees stronger growth potential and higher margins.

Brands

DCC’s Pro Tech and Life Tech portfolio includes leading North American brands JAM and Almo, its UK-based Exertis Enterprise and Cloud operations, and specialist AV and infrastructure businesses across Europe, including Connect, Azenn, Amacom, AV DACH, AV Italy, Exertis Nordics, and AV Spain.

Clive Fitzharris, CEO of DCC Technology, said:
“Today’s announcement represents an important step for DCC Technology as we sharpen our focus on Pro Tech and Life Tech. We are the largest specialist professional AV distributor globally, serving numerous Pro Tech verticals across North America and Europe. Coupled with our growing Life Tech offerings, this positions us well to capture significant opportunities in technology that enhances experiences and improves lifestyles. I’d like to thank all our people and partners for their ongoing support as we continue to grow togetheExerti

The move reflects wider trends in IT distribution sector, where companies are increasingly prioritising specialist, value-added services over traditional IT distribution which faces intense price competition and channel consolidation.

Ironically, Exertis itself is seeking a buyer as parent company DCC plans to concentrate on the energy sector

Group 8 has been in business for more than 20 years and provides specialist Apple support and repair services across MacBooks, iMacs, iPads, iPhones, and Apple Watches.

The company offers a nationwide Collect & Return Repair Service, complete with bespoke packaging and insurance, and also delivers support contracts covering remote, telephone, and onsite technical assistance.

Exertis IT already operates in the refurbished tech sector through its Samsung-accredited MTR Group.  It sees Group 8 as a natural fit for its growing second-life technology strategy.

Rod McCarthy, Group Managing Director of Exertis IT, commented:
“The acquisition of Group 8 is a fantastic addition to our group service strategy. With circular economy regulations on the horizon, bringing Group 8 into the fold is a vital part of helping us—and our customers—lead in the second-life market.”

The move enhances Exertis IT’s capabilities in device longevity and sustainability, with both Group 8 and MTR Group helping to reduce electronic waste by extending the usable life of tech products.

Tim Griffin,  CEO of Exertis IT, added:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Group 8 to the Exertis IT family. Their proven expertise, reputation, and customer-centric approach perfectly align with our goals around sustainability and second-life services. This partnership reinforces our commitment to resource efficiency and innovation.”

Group 8’s leadership team—Terry Fannin, Veronica Child, and David Meehan—who played key roles in the company’s growth and sale, will remain with the business to support its integration and ongoing operations.

The acquisition marks a significant step forward in Exertis IT’s mission to provide end-to-end circular technology solutions across the UK.

“It’s not a drama from my point of view. I see it as a big opportunity to have an owner that is focused on us,” Griffin told Mobile News.

“The Exertis sale announcement is news, but it’s good news,” Griffin explained.

“It’s a positive step for us as we evolve, and it’s business as usual. This is no different from Westcoast being sold or Ingram going through its transition from private equity to IPO, or Tech Data’s private equity move and subsequent merger with Synnex. Capital structures change all the time. This industry is accustomed to operating in a constantly changing environment regarding ownership models. This isn’t unusual.

24-month strategic review

“We are starting a 24-month strategic review of the business. A new owner could come from anywhere across the spectrum of capital structures. It could be a trade buyer, an equity partner, or private equity—really anything. We’ll be looking at who will be the best owners for the assets we’ve got.”

When examining DCC’s overall business, it becomes clear why it is concentrating on energy activities.

Energy makes up 75 per cent of DCC’s operating profit. DCC Energy distributes LPG, natural gas, and other fuels across Europe and North America. It is also investing in solar power and hydrotreated vegetable oil to support decarbonisation. In the UK, DCC manages smart meter infrastructure.

“DCC has been a brilliant owner”

“DCC has been an absolutely brilliant owner for us for many years. Their strategic decision to focus on energy will ensure an orderly transition to a new owner more aligned with our needs. Tech and healthcare are less significant to DCC, so this move makes sense for them. They’ve been fantastic, but there’s an even better fit for us moving forward.”

“It’s vital that everyone understands this is part and parcel of how the market operates. Our focus remains on our people, our customers, and enabling both to grow and thrive. That means helping vendors and retailers do more, and we’ll continue to do so regardless of this announcement. DCC CEO Donal Murphy rightly noted in his announcement that this is the best move for all three divisions—energy, tech, and healthcare—making them stronger for the future.”

Whoever eventually aquires Exertis will be in charge of the UK’s biggest mobile tech distributor with a portfolio of more than 700 global technology brands and over 13,000 resellers, e-commerce operators and retailers.

Exertis’ mobile division has had to adapt to a market now consolidating around Apple and Samsung. Brands like Sony Ericsson and Huawei, once flagship partners, are no longer as prominent. But Griffin maintains a broader perspective:

Biggest distributor of smartphones

“I wouldn’t characterise it as a two-horse race. There are many excellent vendors in the mobile space that we represent and do strong business with. We continue to be the biggest distributor of smartphones in the UK.”

Exertis represents Apple in its Irish operations but does not handle Apple in the UK.

“We have a very strong relationship with Apple. Meanwhile, we’ve built a solid partnership with Samsung, covering everything from first life to second life through our MTR business. The second-life market is fascinating,” Griffin said.

“When you look at sustainability models, residual values and second life become crucial. We’re well-positioned to serve this market. Mobile is hugely important for us. We handle Honor, Motorola, and nearly every other major brand you can think of, except Apple.”

“As far as the DCC announcement is concerned, nothing is happening overnight. The reality is, nothing changes. It’s essential for everyone to understand this is entirely normal for the industry. We remain focused on delighting our customers.”

DCC aims to streamline its portfolio to capitalise on growth opportunities in energy. This announcement was made by DCC Chief Executive Donal Murphy during the company’s interim results presentation. The company plans to simplify its structure and concentrate on sectors it believes hold the most growth potential. While DCC will continue supporting the Technology division financially, it intends to identify a strategic partner to ensure a smooth transition.

Exertis, a key player within DCC’s Technology division, will continue delivering value to its vendor partners. DCC remains committed to investing in operational efficiencies, digital advancements, and integration initiatives.

Tim Griffin, CEO of Exertis IT, commented:

“We’re excited by the opportunities that DCC’s strategic update presents. This is a great opportunity for our Technology division as we explore the possibility of new ownership. Our focus remains on delivering for our customers and vendor partners. DCC’s strategic update provides another opportunity for us all to grow and progress. We want to reassure our customers and vendors of our commitment to them, to adding value, to delighting all our partners, and to enabling their success.”

Exertis changed its name from Micro Peripherals in 2013 when it became the technology division of DCC.

Exertis employees have now voted to select eight local charities including six hospices, one homeless charity and one teenage cancer charity.

The full list is: St Michael’s Hospice in Basingstoke, East Lancashire Hospice in Burnley, Overgate Hospice in Elland, St Clare Hospice in Harlow, Prospect Hospice for Hypertec, Teens Unite for MTR, The Big Issue in Snetterton and DougieMac in Stoke.

Mental health continues to be a focal point for Exertis. The distributor trains internal Mental Health First Aiders to support and provide mental health information and guidance withy awareness days such as Time to Talk Day, World Wellbeing Week, and Mental Health Awareness Week.

The improvements include integration suites, testing labs, and spaces for demonstrations and training, and maintaining quality control standards

 This upgrades increase the integration, configuration and subcontract manufacturing services and capabilities and boosts inventory, responsiveness.

“This milestone represents a significant investment in our future, and a true commitment to our partners to support their growth aspirations. The facility is ready to support advanced technology integration and distribution services, aiming to surpass partner and customer expectations said Exertis Enterprise commercial director Tom Cox.