Orangebox Training Solutions, the Hartlepool-based firm renowned for guiding thousands of learners into employment, has been acquired by Coniston Peak in a strategic deal.
This move is designed to build on Orangebox’s fantastic culture and strengthen business opportunities across the UK with significant investment planned.
This strategic alignment will accelerate Orangebox’s growth and reinforce its core mission of helping more learners successfully move into work.
This goal will be significantly boosted by joining the group that includes Workpays, a Midlands-based training provider acquired by Coniston Peak in 2021, allowing the combined entities to maximise opportunities.
The deal aims to ensure the longevity of the business and its current workforce of around 60 staff. Orangebox’s founder and CEO Simon Corbett will remain at the helm to lead the next phase of expansion alongside Coniston Peak’s leadership.
Simon said: “What started with no staff, no clients, and just an idea, has grown into something I’m truly proud of – a business that’s made a real difference to people’s lives.
“I’ve always said I’d only sell if the right opportunity came along, one that felt completely aligned with my values, standards and culture. And this was exactly that opportunity.
“This next chapter is about collaboration, shared purpose and growth. By combining our two successful organisations, we share one common goal in making a difference for people, our staff, learners, partners and clients.
“Together, we can strengthen our business and dramatically increase the number of learners we help into employment.”
Orangebox, based at its Hartlepool Marina headquarters, has built an impressive reputation since its founding nine and a half years ago.
The company recently celebrated a record-breaking year, having successfully guided more than 1,300 learners into employment through its vocational training programmes across sectors like construction, manufacturing and security.
Simon will now work closely with Alex Glasner and Anne Wright from Coniston Peak – a UK-based company that acquires and runs small and medium-sized businesses to help them grow.
Alex, Managing Director of Workpays and the founder of Coniston Peak, said: “Orangebox Training Solutions is a business with a deeply impressive track record of success, built on an ethical approach and a real passion for changing people’s lives for the better.
“We’ve admired Simon’s unwavering commitment to his staff and learners and we see huge potential to build on this strong culture and look to scale Orangebox’s impact with exciting plans in the pipeline.
“Working closely with Simon and the established team, we are excited to accelerate Orangebox’s journey and strengthen our shared purpose of making a difference through high-quality training and employment support.”
The acquisition marks a significant new chapter for Orangebox, promising expanded opportunities for learners and employers across the UK, all built on a foundation of cultural compatibility and strategic stability.
*For further details about Orangebox’s services check out orangeboxtraining.com