Food and drink manufacturer Princes has bought the iconic Royal Liver Building in Liverpool for £60m.
The group has been a tenant in the Royal Liver Building since 1982 and intends to increase its presence within the Grade I listed building, using it not only as a corporate headquarters but also as a multi-purpose venue for events, collaboration and public engagement.
Princes traces its roots back to 1880 in Liverpool when ‘Simpson & Roberts & Co’ was established as an importer of canned food. In 1900, the business adopted the name Princes.
Princes has also completed the £23m acquisition of the Symington’s Cross Green manufacturing facility in Leeds.
Simon Harrison, CEO of Princes, said: “Liverpool is an integral part of our heritage and future. Securing the Royal Liver Building reflects our commitment to this great city, our people, and sustainable success. The Royal Liver Building is an enduring symbol of Liverpool, and it’s an honour for Princes to call it our home.”
Stuart Tait, head of commercial banking at HSBC UK, which supported Princes on the acquisitions, added: “Supporting businesses that invest in the UK’s communities is at the heart of what we do. We are delighted to have provided financing to Princes to secure this historical landmark in the city it was founded in, as well as an operational facility in Leeds.”
