Dock Solutions, the UK's largest manufacturer of loading bay equipment, has announced the completion of a strategic refinance deal, paving the way for further acquisitions and continued national expansion.

This announcement follows a transformational period for the Gloucestershire-based manufacturer, beginning with a Management Buyout (MBO) in 2023 led by Joshua Hale, who joined the business as an apprentice in 2016.

Just months after taking ownership, Joshua led the acquisition of Loading Bay Lifts, bringing together two respected names in the sector to enhance Dock Solutions' offering and strengthen its position as the go-to supplier in the loading bay industry.

With the refinance now secured, in a deal advised on by GS Verde Group, Dock Solutions is actively seeking acquisition opportunities across the logistics, manufacturing, and service-based sectors, as it looks to further scale operations and diversify its capabilities across the UK.

Joshua Hale, managing director, said: "Back in 2016, I was earning £5.50 an hour as an apprentice. I never imagined my career would accelerate forward as quickly as it has. I care deeply about this company and my colleagues - I couldn't turn my back on it. This journey is proof of what's possible when you put people first, believe in what you do, and back British manufacturing.

"We're proud to uphold a 'British by design' ethos in everything we create, and the refinance means we can now take that even further, growing the business, acquiring complementary capabilities, and expanding our footprint across the UK."

Dock Solutions, established over 20 years ago, is based in Cinderford and delivers bespoke dock levellers, scissor lifts, industrial doors, dock shelters and maintenance packages for trade and end users.

Joshua went on to achieve chartered status in 2020, and under his leadership, has grown significantly in just four years, reflecting a period of sustained investment, operational improvement, and strong customer demand.

The acquisition of Loading Bay Lifts Ltd, a Buckinghamshire-based specialist in high-quality scissor lifts, brought complementary expertise and an enhanced product range into the group, aligning with Dock Solutions' goal of offering a true one-stop-shop for clients.

Speaking about the acquisition, Joshua added: "Loading Bay Lifts is a respected brand, known for quality and innovation. Bringing our businesses together means we can provide even more robust, tailored solutions to our customers. Our commitment to service, safety, and sustainability remains unchanged, it's just the beginning of something much bigger."

All three transactions, the MBO, acquisition, and refinance, were advised on by GS Verde Group, whose unique multi-discipline approach combines legal, finance, tax and communications expertise to deliver seamless corporate transactions.

Joel Dunning, director at GS Verde Group, said: "Joshua's journey is incredibly inspiring, from apprentice to owner, to strategic acquirer. Supporting him through this growth journey has been a pleasure. With the refinance now complete, Dock Solutions is well-positioned for further expansion, and we're excited to help identify the next opportunity."