A MANAGEMENT buy-out has taken over sign makers Blaze Neon, one of Thanet’s most successful companies.

The executive team behind the deal are managing director Clive Knight, sales director Chris Abbott and finance director Joanna Boraston with the help of Lloyds TSB and Matrix Private Equity Partners.

They have acquired Blaze Neon Ltd and Blaze Facilities Management Ltd from its previous owner Blaze Signs International Ltd.

Blaze Neon works with a number of blue chip companies including Argos, Tesco, Abbey and Disneyland Paris and has established itself within the top three UK sign manufacturers.

A spokeswoman said: "The recent buy-out of Blaze Neon Ltd and Blaze Facilities Management Ltd has strengthened their position committing to further growth of the organisation, enhancing the service Blaze provides to its customers.

"The main Blaze head office and manufacturing plant has been based in Broadstairs since 1981 and has grown to operate throughout the UK and Europe. To ensure and maintain service levels for clients in the north of England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, Blaze has a second factory strategically positioned in Birmingham.

"Blaze has a vast team of experienced sign industry professionals utilising the latest software applications and has one of the largest single sign manufacturing site in the UK, housing the latest technology."

Graham Hollis of Lloyds TSB said: "Blaze Neon has an excellent reputation with its customers and has provided an opportunity for us to back an experienced executive management team in a market with strong growth."

Eric Tung of Matrix Private Equity Partners said: "Blaze Neon is a long-established and successful name in the area, possessing a highly experienced executive management team with a clear vision about the next stage of development.

"Blaze is an exciting and innovative company and we look forward to working with them in the future."