Osborne Clarke has advised Haynes Publishing Group P.L.C. on the sale of its UK book production business to JF Print Limited (JF Print).

Haynes is well known as the leading worldwide publisher of car maintenance manuals, but also publishes a wide range of titles on motoring, transport, DIY and family topics.

JF Print has acquired the plant and equipment used in the Haynes UK business and will continue to print Haynes UK Book Division titles for a period of 12 months following completion.

As part of the transaction Haynes has agreed to lease premises to JF Print for three years as well as transferring 43 permanent employees to the purchaser, giving the deal significant property and employment elements. 

 Patrick Graves, corporate partner, Osborne Clarke, commented:

"Haynes is a longstanding client of Osborne Clarke so we were delighted to be able to advise on this phase in the company's development.

"The sale of their book production business will enable Haynes to focus on their core publishing activities, while safeguarding the jobs of the 43 transferring employees."

Commenting on the sale of its UK book production operation, J Haynes, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Haynes Publishing, thanked Osborne Clarke for their professional guidance and practical advice:

“Haynes Publishing are delighted that the print team that had been working at Haynes for so many years will continue to work together.

"I am sure that as an independent printer focused entirely on providing excellent services to the publishing sector there will be new opportunities for JF Print to grow and develop the business.  We wish them every success for the future.”

The Osborne Clarke team was led by corporate partner Patrick Graves, and included corporate associate Tom Harvey and solicitor Sam Hawke.  Associates Leighton Hazell and Leanne Coates advised on property and employment matters respectively, while solicitor Zoe Gaye advised on transitional services.  JF Print were advised by Thring Townsend.

Date: 12 Mar 2009