Hazlewoods Corporate Finance team is delighted to announce the sale of Portabar Ltd, a leading manufacturer of bespoke, high-end portable bar systems used around the world.
Create Cocktails Ltd, a dynamic and fast-growing events company renowned for its luxury mobile bar services, has acquired the business.
Simon Knowles and Caroline Craven created Portabar in 2003, with a vision of producing commercial-standard bars that could be transported to events easily and be set up and dismantled quickly.
Recognised for their innovative, modular designs and exceptional build quality, Portabar’s patented bars feature interlocking parts that require no tools or fixings for assembly. They can be easily configured into multiple layouts and packed into flight cases for effortless transportation.
Over the years the Gloucestershire-based business has created branded mobile bars for high-profile customers including Laurent-Perrier Champagne, Harvey Nichols, and Waldorf Astoria Hotels.
Their designs are used at multiple locations including wedding venues, cruise ships, hotels, iconic sporting venues, and pubs and restaurants.
The acquisition by Create Cocktails marks a significant milestone in Portabar’s journey, positioning the business for accelerated growth and expanded market reach under new ownership.
Create Cocktails was established in 2004 and is based in London. It is well-known for delivering first-class mobile bar experiences, expert bartenders, and bespoke drinks services for events, weddings, and brand launches.
Caroline Craven, co-founder of Portabar, said: “We are incredibly proud of what Portabar has achieved and are excited to see the brand continue to thrive under the ownership of Create Cocktails. Their energy and vision align perfectly with our values, and we are confident this partnership will unlock new opportunities for the business.”
She added: “We would like to thank Rich Grover and the Hazlewoods team for their support and guidance throughout the transaction. Their professionalism, strategic insight, and dedication were instrumental in achieving a successful outcome. They made a complex process feel seamless.”
Hazlewoods’ Corporate Finance team provided end-to-end support, preparing the business for sale, engaging with potential buyers, managing the due diligence process and supporting negotiations through to completion.
Rich Grover, Corporate Finance Director at Hazlewoods, said: “It has been a real pleasure working with Caroline and Simon on this transaction. The business has a fantastic product, a strong brand, and a loyal customer base, which made it a highly attractive proposition.
“We’re delighted to have supported them in finding the right buyer in Create Cocktails; it is a natural fit and will ensure that Portabar continues to flourish.”
Please contact Rich Grover if you would like to have a confidential chat about selling your business. rich.grover@hazlewoods.co.uk
