A vending machine company based in Christchurch is set for further expansion after being acquired by the largest railway company in Japan.

Decorum Vending Ltd has been purchased by the East Japan Railway Company (JR East).

Frettens Solicitors’ Corporate and Commercial department acted for Decorum.

The acquisition has been hailed as a major milestone for the business which was founded in 2015 by Declan Sewell.

It specialises in providing vending machines to rail networks.

Declan, who is Decorum’s Managing Director, pictured right, said: “This new chapter promises exciting opportunities as we leverage cutting-edge technologies to deliver innovative and efficient solutions.

“We intend to continue Decorum’s successful approach within the transport sector across Europe and beyond, ensuring our commitment to excellence and growth remains steadfast.”

The acquisition comes four years after Decorum raised funds from Cordovan Capital Partners, the Belfast-based private equity house, to grow the business.

Frettens, which has offices in Christchurch and Ringwood, said Decorum’s growth in recent years, through private equity fundraising to international acquisition, had been “very impressive”.

Matthew Fretten, Managing Partner, and Zoe Watson, Corporate & Commercial Solicitor, provided Decorum with the legal assistance needed to get the acquisition by JR East over the line.

The firm’s Commercial Property and Employment departments also provided advice as part of the transaction, with Oonagh McKinney and Kate Fretten involved.

Matthew, pictured left,  said: “We have had a strong relationship with Decorum for a long time now.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have played a part in the company taking this next step and partnering with JR East.

“We are looking forward to the company’s continued success, with their acquisition marking an exciting development in their story.

“We are also thrilled to remain their first port of call for legal advice going forwards.”

Declan said: “Frettens have been fundamental to our business’ success over the past few years and we truly couldn’t have done it without them.

“They have guided us in all things legal; from signing contracts, to advising us in obtaining our first round of private equity investment, and now in our eventual sale.

“We look forward to continuing to work with them in this next exciting chapter, as our business continues to grow.”