Dutch machinery manufacturer Vervaet has purchased a 50% share of its UK importer, J Riley Beet Harvesters.

The deal comes as no members of the Riley family are in a position to continue running the business. It was a logical move as the two family-run companies have been in partnership for more than 25 years.

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J Riley Beet Harvesters was established in 1994 by managing director Jeremy Riley, and now employs 14 staff from its base in Attlebridge, Norfolk.

Since day one, J Riley has been the sole UK importer of Vervaet beet harvesters and Hydro-Trike self-propelled spreaders, supplying and servicing both new and refurbished second-hand machines throughout the country.