Switzerland, 09.12.2025
All Interests Aligned (AIA) – a European management buy-in platform backed by entrepreneurial investors and specialising in acquiring profitable SMEs in need of a succession solution – today announced the acquisition of H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd., a leading UK carpet and flooring company. The deal secures the future of the business by building on solid foundations and bringing in new leadership from Philip Cefai (previously MD, Crown Paints).
H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd., established in 1802, has become a well-known and respected force in the carpet and flooring sector in the Northwest of the UK. The company has been successfully transformed by six generations of the Mears family, into the modern, efficient business it is today.
Guy Mears said: “From our first meeting, I felt Philip and the AIA team genuinely understood what our 220-year legacy represents – the high standards we've built with our loyal staff and clients, many of whom have been with us for over 30 years. This must continue, and I'm certain it will. That's what sets Mears apart.”
Philip Cefai commented: “It’s a privilege to take the helm of such a respected and long-established business. H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd. stands for quality, trust, and community – values that I intend to carry forward. With AIA as my investment partner, I have both the backing and the strategic support to build on the company’s strong foundations and unlock new opportunities for growth.”
Across Europe, thousands of profitable businesses are seeking ways to secure their future, as a generation of entrepreneurial business owners look to step back from operations or retire. AIA brings together ready private capital, and experienced, entrepreneurial operators, supporting them to fulfil their ambition and acquire companies.
Ralf Grass, founder and Chairman of AIA said: “H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd. is a great business which we are proud to continue as owners and operators through the next stages of its journey. Philip’s track record within the homebuilding sector, combined with his shared vision for the future, makes this an excellent match for sustained growth.”
AIA was advised by Kredo, DLA Piper and Forvis Mazars, and the Mears family was advised by Grant Thornton Corporate Finance and LLM Solicitors. Debt financing for the transaction was provided by Barclays. We thank all those involved for the commitment and professionalism throughout the transaction.
H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd. is a sixth-generation, family-owned flooring specialist based in Preston, Lancashire, established in 1802. Serving homeowners, housebuilders, hotels and institutions nationwide, Mears offers an extensive range of carpets, vinyl, laminates, and wood flooring, with expert fitting and exceptional service. Employing 33 people in Preston, Lancashire, H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd. combines tradition, quality, and value to deliver great floors and lasting satisfaction. Learn more at www.mearscarpets.co.uk
All Interests Aligned AG (AIA) is a Switzerland-based investment platform created by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs. AIA partners with experienced operators to acquire and lead succession-stage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Europe through management buy-ins (MBIs). With deep capital reserves of more than €250 million and institutional expertise, AIA provides a complete platform for sourcing, executing, and scaling SME investments – preserving legacies, empowering new leadership, and generating sustainable value for investors. Learn more at www.all-interests-aligned.com.
Media Contacts:
Philip Cefai, CEO, H. Mears (Furnishers) Ltd.
philip@mearscarpets.co.uk
Chris Morgan, Marketing Manager, All Interests Aligned AG
christopher.morgan@all-interests-aligned.com
