Laurel Funerals announces acquisition spree

Laurel Funerals has announced the acquisition of two funeral businesses to add to its growing collective.

The purchase of Birmingham-based WH Scott & Son and Kent-based Earl & Co builds on Laurel’s already established operations in both regions, which the company hopes will provide a stepping stone for further expansion throughout the remainder of the year.

The latest acquisitions are part of the company’s longer-term strategy of buying established and reputable funeral businesses in areas adjacent to other brands already part of the Laurel family.

Founded in 1860, W.H. Scott & Son has been serving the community of Birmingham for over a century and as part of the purchase, the current family members and wider funeral team will remain in place, playing an instrumental part in the strategic expansion plans that Laurel has put in place for the business across the rest of 2014.

The purchase of W.H. Scott & Son reinforces Laurel’s position as a reputable funeral provider in the Midlands, complementing the geographical reach and market-leading service offered by Jennings Funeral Directors in Wolverhampton and William H Painter Funeral Directors in Birmingham.

Deborah Kemp, Laurel Funerals’ chief executive officer. “I am delighted to announce the acquisition of W.H. Scott & Son and Earl & Co and to be able to add them to the Laurel collective of funeral businesses. We were attracted to both businesses, not only because they enjoy a strong and trusted reputation built upon more than 100 years of heritage, but the funeral teams in place also demonstrate values which mirror our own.

“As is our approach with all the brands in our collective, we will look to retain the personality and individuality of each brand while ensuring both businesses benefit from working under the Laurel umbrella.”