Private equity firm 4D Capital Partners LLP (“4D”) has acquired the Hepworth Clay business in a carve-out from Wavin Limited, the UK subsidiary of Orbia Building & Infrastructure.

Hepworth Clay is the only manufacturer in the UK of vitrified clay pipes and associated fittings used for drainage purposes. It manufactures from sites at Hazlehead (Yorkshire) and Forest Works (East Midlands) with 550,000 sq ft of manufacturing space sat on over 100 acres, using material from its own quarries which hold significant clay reserves of over 18 million tonnes.

As well as the core range of drainage solutions, it manufactures a range of terracotta products for the construction and ventilation of domestic flue and chimney systems.

Alex Silk (Founder of 4D) said:

“We are delighted to have invested in Hepworth Clay and very proud to become the custodians of this heritage brand. There is an excellent team in place with some exceptionally talented people who share our passion for high-quality manufacturing. We look forward to working with them to realise the full potential of Hepworth Clay.”

The investment was led by Alex Silk, Dan Newett, Daniel Hannappel and Dominic Wong. 4D were advised by Quantuma (Debt Advisory and Bid Support), Shoosmiths (Legal), Dickson Minto (Property), K3 (Tax) and Ford Campbell Freedman (Tax).