Independent furniture business Bluebell Fitted Furniture has reported a 16% revenue increase from 2024 to 2025, marking the strongest year of growth in the company’s 40-year history and underlining the progress it has made since its management buyout (MBO) in 2023.
The Sale-based bespoke furniture business was acquired in 2023 by directors James Ordsmith and Stephen Capel from long-standing co-founders and owners Mike and Alison Reuben, who remain part of the business as non-executive directors. Since the MBO, Bluebell has continued to build on its legacy while adapting to meet the changing customer demands in the challenging retail market.
Despite wider pressures in the home improvement and retail sectors, the business has grown by broadening its appeal across a wider range of customer budgets, while also increasing its focus on higher-end, multi-room projects. The appointment of a new designer has added specialist expertise to its team, strengthening its ability to deliver more complex schemes without compromising the personal service that has defined the business since it was founded.
Warrington-headquartered accountancy, audit and advisory firm JS was instrumental in supporting James and Stephen through the MBO and has continued to work closely with the business, post the transaction. That support included structuring the MBO transaction, easing pressure on the internal finance team, and providing regular financial reporting and guidance to help the directors track performance and make informed decisions.
To support growth in 2026, the business is continuing to invest in its offering. It has introduced a series of new product ranges this year and has plans to expand its showroom footprint and bring more of its manufacturing capability in-house.
James Ordsmith, Director at Bluebell Fitted Furniture said: “The MBO was a steep learning curve, but it also gave us the platform to take Bluebell forward. We wanted to protect everything that made the business special, including the family feel and the reputation that had been built over decades by Mike and Alison, while also making sure we were set up to continue to grow.”
Stephen Capel, Director at Bluebell Fitted Furniture, added: “Our success in 2025 is a major achievement for the business, particularly in a difficult market. JS has been an important partner throughout – helping us structure the deal and providing clear financial insight as we’ve scaled. Their support has given us the confidence to make the right decisions and maintain a strong focus on performance as we look to the next phase of growth.”
Emma Birchall, Accounts Partner at JS, said: “Bluebell is a fantastic example of what owner-managed businesses can achieve with the right ambition and support around them. James and Stephen were clear from day one that this was about building on an established legacy and not changing the character of the business.
“Our role has helped provide strategic support that allows them to focus on growth. In a market where many businesses have faced real pressure, Bluebell has adapted well and stayed close to its customers to deliver a record year. It’s an impressive story that reflects the strength of the business they are continuing to build.”
