Sybron merges with fellow cleaning supplier Opera

Cleaning, hygiene and catering product supplier Sybron has merged with competitor Opera National Hygiene & Catering Supplies.

Based in Nantwich, Opera operates across the Midlands and the North of England, serving customers in the hospitality sector.

On 3 November, Opera joined Sybron at its new Stafford depot. The site was originally intended as a distribution hub for Sybron, however the merger has given the company an opportunity to create a base in the Midlands and the North.

The combined business is operating as Sybron, and the team said they intend to focus on “maintaining excellent customer service and driving the business forward”.

“As two family-run companies joining forces, we share the same core values – teamwork and a commitment to exceptional service,” said Sybron’s sales and marketing director, George Mason.

“Sybron is focused on maintaining our USPs and retaining our family-run culture, making Opera a natural fit as we continue to expand our footprint.

“We have all approached this merger with great consideration and a commitment to satisfy all parties. The hours that have gone into it have paid off and together we have created an exceptional new team – we’re off to a great start and look forward to building the business together.”

Opera was founded by John and Marie Whittaker in 2018, with John now transitioning into the role of Sybron director of the north region.

He described the merger as “a win-win for us and our customers,” adding: “Our customers will continue to enjoy exceptional service under the Sybron name and also benefit from the extended infrastructure, product innovation and investment in social responsibility that come with this larger, dynamic organisation.”

Sybron is a family-owned company which was established in 2003. It supplies cleaning, hygiene and catering products to sectors across the UK including hospitality, education, healthcare and facilities management.

In March it underwent a management buyout following the retirements of co-founders Trevor and Stephen Henwood. The current owners comprise executive director, Kathryn Henwood; operations director, Bradley Henwood; business development director, Chris Henwood; sales and marketing director, George Mason; and purchasing director, Mark Newson.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.