Steel and Sports: A New Era of Investment in the UK
June 18, 2025, 5:41 am
In the world of business, fortunes can shift like sand. One moment, a self-made millionaire is selling his empire; the next, he’s diving into the steel industry. Simon Orange, co-owner of the Sale Sharks rugby team, has made headlines by acquiring a majority stake in William Hare, the UK’s second-largest steel contractor. This move comes just months after he sold his investment business for over £1 billion. It’s a classic tale of reinvention and ambition.
William Hare, a company with roots tracing back to 1888, is a titan in the steel sector. Based in Bury, Greater Manchester, it has weathered storms and emerged stronger. The company reported a turnover of £315.5 million in 2023, a significant leap from £248.3 million the previous year. After a challenging 2022, it returned to profitability with a pre-tax profit of £5.7 million. This turnaround is a testament to resilience and strategic management.
Orange’s acquisition is not just a financial transaction; it’s a strategic play. The current management team will remain in place, ensuring continuity. This decision reflects a keen understanding of the industry’s intricacies. William Hare has a portfolio that includes prestigious projects like Media City in Salford and the Bloomberg building in London. Such credentials speak volumes about its capabilities.
Meanwhile, in the realm of health and fitness, David Lloyd is experiencing a renaissance. The health club chain has reported a pre-tax profit of £32.2 million for 2024, marking its first profit since being acquired by TDR Capital. This turnaround is no small feat, especially after racking up losses of around £600 million since the acquisition. The rise in revenue from £756.3 million to £860.7 million is a clear indicator of a successful strategy.
The secret ingredient? Padel and pickleball. These racquet sports have surged in popularity, breathing new life into the fitness chain. David Lloyd operates 130 padel courts across 37 clubs, making it the largest operator in the UK. The chain also boasts 76 pickleball facilities. This focus on premium offerings has paid off, attracting a growing membership base. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality is evident in its operations.
In 2024, David Lloyd experienced a 3.9% increase in membership, driven by both organic growth and new openings. The chain’s leadership is optimistic about the future, predicting continued growth in the popularity of these sports. Plans are already in motion to open additional padel courts at 20 more clubs in 2025. This proactive approach is a hallmark of successful businesses.
TDR Capital, the private equity giant behind David Lloyd, has a diverse portfolio that includes Asda and Jollyes. The firm has previously attempted to sell David Lloyd, with valuations ranging from £1.8 billion to £2.3 billion. The market is ever-changing, and TDR Capital’s strategic decisions will be crucial in navigating these waters.
Both Simon Orange and TDR Capital are playing high-stakes games. Orange’s foray into steel signals a shift in focus, while TDR Capital’s management of David Lloyd reflects a commitment to revitalization. The interplay between sports and industry is fascinating. Each move can have ripple effects across sectors.
The UK’s economic landscape is evolving. Investment in traditional industries like steel is juxtaposed with the booming health and fitness sector. These narratives intertwine, showcasing the dynamic nature of business. The rise of padel and pickleball is not just a trend; it’s a cultural shift. People are seeking new ways to stay active, and businesses are responding.
As Orange steps into the steel arena, he brings with him a wealth of experience from the sports world. His understanding of teamwork and strategy will be invaluable. William Hare’s legacy is rich, and under Orange’s stewardship, it may reach new heights. The steel industry is not for the faint-hearted, but with the right vision, it can be a goldmine.
On the other hand, David Lloyd’s journey illustrates the power of adaptation. The health club chain has embraced change, focusing on what resonates with consumers. The rise of racquet sports is a reflection of shifting preferences. People want more than just a gym; they seek community and engagement. David Lloyd is delivering on that promise.
In conclusion, the stories of Simon Orange and David Lloyd are intertwined in a larger narrative of transformation. The UK is witnessing a renaissance in both steel and sports. As these industries evolve, they will shape the economic landscape. Investors and entrepreneurs must remain agile, ready to pivot and seize opportunities. The future is bright for those willing to embrace change. The dance between tradition and innovation continues, and the stage is set for new players to emerge.
William Hare, a company with roots tracing back to 1888, is a titan in the steel sector. Based in Bury, Greater Manchester, it has weathered storms and emerged stronger. The company reported a turnover of £315.5 million in 2023, a significant leap from £248.3 million the previous year. After a challenging 2022, it returned to profitability with a pre-tax profit of £5.7 million. This turnaround is a testament to resilience and strategic management.
Orange’s acquisition is not just a financial transaction; it’s a strategic play. The current management team will remain in place, ensuring continuity. This decision reflects a keen understanding of the industry’s intricacies. William Hare has a portfolio that includes prestigious projects like Media City in Salford and the Bloomberg building in London. Such credentials speak volumes about its capabilities.
Meanwhile, in the realm of health and fitness, David Lloyd is experiencing a renaissance. The health club chain has reported a pre-tax profit of £32.2 million for 2024, marking its first profit since being acquired by TDR Capital. This turnaround is no small feat, especially after racking up losses of around £600 million since the acquisition. The rise in revenue from £756.3 million to £860.7 million is a clear indicator of a successful strategy.
The secret ingredient? Padel and pickleball. These racquet sports have surged in popularity, breathing new life into the fitness chain. David Lloyd operates 130 padel courts across 37 clubs, making it the largest operator in the UK. The chain also boasts 76 pickleball facilities. This focus on premium offerings has paid off, attracting a growing membership base. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality is evident in its operations.
In 2024, David Lloyd experienced a 3.9% increase in membership, driven by both organic growth and new openings. The chain’s leadership is optimistic about the future, predicting continued growth in the popularity of these sports. Plans are already in motion to open additional padel courts at 20 more clubs in 2025. This proactive approach is a hallmark of successful businesses.
TDR Capital, the private equity giant behind David Lloyd, has a diverse portfolio that includes Asda and Jollyes. The firm has previously attempted to sell David Lloyd, with valuations ranging from £1.8 billion to £2.3 billion. The market is ever-changing, and TDR Capital’s strategic decisions will be crucial in navigating these waters.
Both Simon Orange and TDR Capital are playing high-stakes games. Orange’s foray into steel signals a shift in focus, while TDR Capital’s management of David Lloyd reflects a commitment to revitalization. The interplay between sports and industry is fascinating. Each move can have ripple effects across sectors.
The UK’s economic landscape is evolving. Investment in traditional industries like steel is juxtaposed with the booming health and fitness sector. These narratives intertwine, showcasing the dynamic nature of business. The rise of padel and pickleball is not just a trend; it’s a cultural shift. People are seeking new ways to stay active, and businesses are responding.
As Orange steps into the steel arena, he brings with him a wealth of experience from the sports world. His understanding of teamwork and strategy will be invaluable. William Hare’s legacy is rich, and under Orange’s stewardship, it may reach new heights. The steel industry is not for the faint-hearted, but with the right vision, it can be a goldmine.
On the other hand, David Lloyd’s journey illustrates the power of adaptation. The health club chain has embraced change, focusing on what resonates with consumers. The rise of racquet sports is a reflection of shifting preferences. People want more than just a gym; they seek community and engagement. David Lloyd is delivering on that promise.
In conclusion, the stories of Simon Orange and David Lloyd are intertwined in a larger narrative of transformation. The UK is witnessing a renaissance in both steel and sports. As these industries evolve, they will shape the economic landscape. Investors and entrepreneurs must remain agile, ready to pivot and seize opportunities. The future is bright for those willing to embrace change. The dance between tradition and innovation continues, and the stage is set for new players to emerge.