FORTY years after setting up a hotel and catering supplier’s business, Mike Burbridge has decided to sell up. The Guernsey arm of Mercury Distribution has bought the hotel and catering division, the export division and the party hire business of Burbridge Ltd; these will now be known as Mercury Burbridge.

‘We are pleased to have acquired such a leading company within the industry,’ said Mercury Distribution Guernsey director Bill Dempsey.

‘Burbridge’s are a major player in the Bailiwick, having designed, supplied and installed a significant number of commercial kitchens and provided general supplies to the catering and hotel industry across the islands.’

As part of the sale, from 1 June, Burbridge Electrical and Mechanical Services will continue to trade under the name BEMS.

‘I am not retiring completely as Burbridge Ltd will continue in business with the existing Channel Island agencies which will continue to be handled by my daughter, Paula,’ said Deputy Burbridge.

He added that the publications division would also continue as the principal wholesaler of paperback and hardback books under the management of Siobhan McCormick and himself.

‘It is the overall wish of both parties to ensure that everything possible is done to effect a smooth transfer of the business, particularly for our mutual customers in the Bailiwick,’ said Mr Dempsey.

‘This deal means we shall be able to create a solid platform for the future of our business in the Bailiwick.’