VIP Electronic cigarettes were one of the UK’s leading electronic cigarette companies, launched in 2009 by co-founders Miguel Corral and David Levin.

Four years prior to sale the owners set a clear objective: grow to sell.  Working with Stafford & Co for 4 years, Miguel and David built VIP into one of the most profitable electronic cigarette companies across Europe, with a leading presence in England and a number one market position in Ireland.

Stafford & Co provided guidance and advice to VIP, making sure VIP were well prepared, ensuring the financial position of the business would appeal to potential investors to help achieve the best sale value for the owners.

Once they had achieved their growth objectives the Stafford & Co Directors supported the VIP’s management board; assisting with the sale of the business to American firm Victory Electronic Cigarettes Corporation for £30 million. The purchase was carried out via a combination of cash and shares.

Robert Stafford, Director of Stafford & Co says:

“Everything we do is about helping our clients to understand, measure and improve their numbers. When VIP advised us of their exit plans, we knew that we had the expertise and knowledge to support them every step of the way. 

We thoroughly enjoyed working with the VIP team.  When it came to the sale presenting accurate, clear information and providing guidance is so important, given that most business owners have never sold a business before, clear timely advice and support makes the process easier and certainly less stressful for business owners.

I’m delighted to say this is a great success story for our client, from achieving fast growth through to a successful sale, achieving all their objectives.”

Stafford & Co work with clients across the full lifecycle of their business, from start-up, to growth, to seeking investment and managing an effective exit or sale.

If you are looking to grow and sell your business find out more, contact Rob or Dominic at Stafford & Co.