W V Howe Announce Exciting Management Buy-Out Announced!

 

Derek Howe is handing over the reigns to the next generation of his thriving family business after half a century.

 

As we embark on the 80th year since the company was founded, we’re under excellent new management. 

 

Now that the management buy-out is officially completed, we’re keeping it in the family. W V Howe Limited has been acquired by W V Howe (Holdings) Limited, with Becci Peake, step-daughter of our managing director Derek Howe, taking over as CEO.

Derek has nurtured and grown this successful, Birmingham-based business over the past 50 years, and can now relax a little to enjoy the fruits of semi-retirement while still making himself available for any support that the new company needs.

“To be stepping down and not be leading the company after 50 years will certainly be different, however the decision was made to ensure that W V Howe remained as an independent family-run company and continued to offer the same personal level of service that customers have enjoyed over many years.” Commented Derek.

“The company remains in very good hands under the leadership of Becci and also [operations director] Grant Shaw who will continue to develop the Technical Services side of the business.

“Since my father Walter V Howe founded the business in 1945 we’ve had a proud family history as a leading retail and wholesale catering equipment supplier servicing many outlets across the UK in the both the public and private sectors and I’m immensely proud that this will continue to be the case for many years to come.”

 

Derek Howe: Managing Director, WV Howe 

 

 

 

Back where it all began, under Walter V Howe at the wonderfully nostalgic Bardsley Green premises.

 

Most recently the commercial director of the growing business, Mrs Peake brings her infectious energy, experience and expertise to this new role. Becci is delighted and excited to be taking over the reins of the family business and becoming only the third owner of the company since it was founded after the end of World War Two.

“I am in my 20th year at WV Howe and have enjoyed every minute working under Derek’s leadership, guidance and support which has seen the company develop and expand into the position it finds itself today. Our objectives moving forward are to continue to provide the highest levels of service to our customers whilst being proactive in this ever-changing market place.

“We will be supportive and recognise the importance of our suppliers to our business and ensure we train, motivate and communicate to our loyal staff the importance to deliver those high levels of service. 

“Personally, I would like to thank Derek for the opportunity he gave me those 20 years ago and for all he has done to make the business the success it is today. I would also like to congratulate him on his 50th year work anniversary and wish him good health and happiness in his well-deserved retirement.”

 

 

W V Howe said the change in ownership does not alter its trading relationship with customers or suppliers, and neither should expect any change to daily operations.

 

Please join us in congratulating Becci and Derek and celebrating this important new milestone in the history of W V Howe.