Business

Co Down sports retailer acquires Scottish rival in major deal

Steven McMurray (left) and Alan McMurray (right) pictured with DJ Wilson from Ulster Bank. McMurray Sports has just announced the acquisition of Scottish rival Gilmour Sports in a six-figure deal
Steven McMurray (left) and Alan McMurray (right) pictured with DJ Wilson from Ulster Bank. McMurray Sports has just announced the acquisition of Scottish rival Gilmour Sports in a six-figure deal Steven McMurray (left) and Alan McMurray (right) pictured with DJ Wilson from Ulster Bank. McMurray Sports has just announced the acquisition of Scottish rival Gilmour Sports in a six-figure deal

A LEADING Co Down sports retailer has expanded operations by acquiring a Scottish industry rival in a six-figure deal.

McMurray Sports, which operates the popular Total Hockey website in addition to the store in Banbridge has bought Gilmour Sports, a hockey equipment seller and competitor.

McMurray Sports is run by brothers Alan and Steven McMurray and through its online presence now sells to foreign markets including the US and Japan.

The latest acquisition, which is being supported by Ulster Bank, will enable the Co Down retailer to further grow its business in the UK market as well as into Europe, building on its success on the island of Ireland.

Steven McMurray said the acquisition of one of Europe’s leading field hockey specialists was significant.

“Gilmour Sports is a strong brand with a strong customer-base in Scotland and England, as well as in the Republic of Ireland and elsewhere in Europe. We are experiencing ongoing organic growth, but we feel that this acquisition will put us in a very strong position in some key markets. We are very grateful for the backing we have received from Ulster Bank who have supported the family business for many years and have provided us outstanding expertise and assistance.”

Ulster Bank business development manager DJ Wilson added:

“McMurray Sports is a long-standing Ulster Bank client that we have been pleased to support over a number of decades. Alan and Steven’s vision opened up a new opportunity for the company in terms of online sales of hockey equipment and this latest investment will see them further develop that part of the business.”