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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Stadium Group announced on 3 November 2008 that it had acquired Zirkon Limited for £2.5 million in net cash consideration. The deal expanded Stadium Electronics’ manufacturing, testing and engineering capabilities, while giving Zirkon customers access to Stadium’s wholly owned China operations for offshore manufacturing and global procurement.
What Stadium acquired
Zirkon was a UK electronics manufacturing services (EMS) provider that had operated since 1999. It served industrial instrumentation, security, medical and mobility markets. Its Rugby manufacturing site covered 6,000 square metres and employed 84 people; annual turnover exceeded £7 million at the time of the transaction. The operation continued under the Stadium Electronics trading name.
These are transaction-period figures reported in 2008, not current measures of Stadium’s workforce, turnover or facilities.
What changed in Stadium’s manufacturing capability
The acquisition complemented Stadium’s existing operation in Hartlepool. After the two businesses combined, Stadium reported a total of six surface-mount production lines. The added capabilities also included:
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- Further testing, including automated optical inspection (AOI).
- Mechanical assembly.
- Expanded design and engineering resources.
The reported six-line total describes the combined operation in 2008; it does not establish the number of lines Stadium operates today.
Why Stadium bought Zirkon
Stadium described Zirkon as a well-managed business that fit its operating model and growth strategy. The deal brought together complementary operations and capabilities across customers and markets. Stadium also said Zirkon customers could gain access to its wholly owned China operations for offshore manufacturing and global procurement.
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Richard Reid, then managing director of Stadium Electronics, said: “The acquisition of Zirkon is key to the development of Stadium Electronics and will play a significant role in the future growth of our business.”
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the deal cost
Stadium announced net cash consideration of £2.5 million for Zirkon on 3 November 2008. The figure is the stated consideration for the historical acquisition; it is not a current valuation or price indication.
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