30.04.2025 | Chepstow, Wales
REID Lifting Holdings Ltd (“REID Lifting”, “REID”) is delighted to announce the acquisition of REID Lifting France (“RLF”), one of France’s premier lifting equipment providers. This marks a significant milestone in REID’s strategic growth journey and represents the company’s first acquisition following its recent recapitalisation in February 2025, which was advised by The Smithfield Group (“Smithfield”) and supported by new banking facilities and growth capital from Santander UK Plc.
Founded in 1996, REID Lifting is a global leader in lightweight, portable lifting and access solutions, specialising in engineered gantries, davits, and other systems that enhance safety, efficiency, and operational performance. The company serves a broad range of end markets including water & wastewater, utilities, construction, manufacturing, and industrial safety, and delivers high-quality solutions that meet stringent international safety and regulatory standards. Headquartered in Chepstow, Wales, REID operates subsidiaries in Minnesota, USA and now France, with products available across a wide range of international markets.
RLF was founded in 1999 by Karena Buckingham and has played a pivotal role in developing the market for REID’s products across France and key export territories. With a reputation built over 26 years for technical expertise, product quality, and outstanding service, RLF has grown to become REID Lifting’s largest customer and distributor.
Following the transaction, the REID Lifting Group will employ approximately 80 people and continue to be led by Simon Luke, Group Managing Director.
Simon Luke added: “We’re incredibly pleased by the confidence shown in REID by our investors and Santander, particularly in supporting the acquisition of RLF. This brings together a highly experienced team, strengthens our European footprint, and enables us to better coordinate international brand-building efforts. Our continued partnership with Smithfield, coupled with this recapitalisation, gives us the momentum to invest further in our people, product innovation, and continue expanding in high-growth markets like the US. Throughout this next phase, our focus remains on delivering world-class lifting solutions that enhance safety, productivity, and customer satisfaction globally.”
About The Smithfield Group
Smithfield is a global investment holding company with a highly experienced Investment Team that has a multi-decade track record of realised value creation, supported by world-class Operating Partners. Headquartered in London and Berlin, Smithfield pursues a transatlantic investment strategy, utilising its extensive network to source and resource proprietary acquisition opportunities.