Not content to stand still, in 2011 Sentry made the decision to specialise further, developing premium ultra-high specification timber fire doorsets with a commitment to be at the forefront of certification and compliance. This commitment continues to this day.
We celebrated our 30-year anniversary in 2019, which was a key milestone and marked the strategic step to further advance our growth plans. To support our growth plans, The business became part of the Cairngorm Capital portfolio in February 2019, enjoying significant investment in our factories, systems, processes and people and led by an established management team led by CEO, Ty Aziz. Sentry has also benefitted from Cairngorm Capital’s sector knowledge, strategic planning and from the expertise of its operating partners including Chairman, Jon Gatfield.
Cairngorm Capital continued its support backing the expansion of Sentry Fire Safety Group into additional markets through the acquisition of 100-year-old E & S W Knowles company in 2022. This ensured the provision of veneered and lacquered doorsets into complementary markets such as student accommodation, education, commercial fit out and healthcare. Knowles is now integrated into the Group and its range incorporated within our extensive catalogue.
Sentry Fire Safety Group is well equipped to respond to regulatory change and increased market demand having substantially expanded manufacturing capacity and extended its geographic distribution. According to a 2024 Real Deals report by BDO LLP, Sentry ranked 3rd for the fastest growing manufacturer in Yorkshire, further solidifying our position as a market lead.
1989 – Sentry established as distributor of fire doors
1996 – Moved into manufacturing to ensure product quality
2011 – Decided to specialise in timber fire doorsets
2019 – Celebrated 30th anniversary and became part of the Cairngorm Capital portfolio
2022 – Acquisition of 100-year-old E&SW Knowles, fire door manufacturers in complementary markets