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Private Equity Boosts Sustainability Greenhouses in Westland, Netherlands

Greenhouses

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable agriculture, private equity investments are transforming the landscape of greenhouse farming in Westland, Netherlands. With an influx of capital and innovative practices, the region’s agricultural industry is witnessing a remarkable evolution, aligning itself with environmentally conscious principles and cutting-edge technology.

Private Equity Firms Catalyzing Green Initiatives

Several private equity firms have recognized the potential for sustainable agriculture in Westland’s greenhouse sector. Partnering with local farmers and greenhouse owners, these firms are investing substantially in eco-friendly infrastructure and renewable energy sources. By incorporating advanced technologies, such as solar-powered heating and energy-efficient climate control systems, these greenhouses are drastically reducing their carbon footprint.

Revolutionizing Agricultural Practices

The infusion of private equity funds has allowed for the widespread adoption of precision agriculture techniques. Farmers are leveraging data analytics, IoT devices, and automation to optimize crop yields while minimizing resource usage. This data-driven approach not only enhances productivity but also ensures that resources like water and fertilizers are used judiciously, contributing to the overall sustainability of the agricultural sector.

Empowering Farmers for a Greener Future

Private equity investments have empowered local farmers to transition to organic and pesticide-free cultivation methods. This shift not only promotes healthier produce but also supports biodiversity and natural ecosystems in the region. Additionally, investments in research and development are enabling the creation of new, disease-resistant crop varieties, further reducing the need for harmful chemicals.

Community Engagement and Education

Beyond financial support, private equity firms are actively engaging with the local community to promote environmental awareness and sustainable farming practices. Educational programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns are being organized to educate farmers, agricultural workers, and the general public about the importance of eco-friendly agriculture. These initiatives are fostering a culture of sustainability that is essential for the long-term health of the region.

Positive Economic Impact

The convergence of private equity investments and sustainable greenhouse practices has had a positive economic impact on Westland. The region is experiencing increased employment opportunities, as the demand for skilled workers in sustainable agriculture rises. Additionally, the export of organic, locally grown produce has boosted the region’s economy, contributing to a flourishing agricultural industry.

Greenhouse2

Looking Ahead

The collaboration between private equity firms and greenhouse farmers in Westland, Netherlands, stands as a beacon of hope for the future of agriculture. Through sustainable practices, technological innovation, and community engagement, this partnership is not only transforming the landscape of Westland but also setting an inspiring example for agricultural communities worldwide.

As the region continues to flourish under these eco-conscious initiatives, it is evident that the marriage of private equity and greenhouses is not just a business endeavor but a commitment to a greener, more sustainable planet.

Categories: Insights

Capitalizing on Opportunities in a Dynamic Maritime Landscape

Shipping

The shipping industry, often regarded as the lifeblood of global trade, is catching the attention of private equity firms as they seek to capitalize on opportunities in a rapidly evolving sector. With the demand for maritime transportation showing resilience and the industry undergoing transformation due to technological advancements and sustainability imperatives, private equity is steering its investments towards shipping, aiming to reshape operations and unlock new value.

Reinventing Maritime Operations

Private equity firms are recognizing the potential for operational optimization and modernization within the shipping sector. Investments are being directed towards companies that offer innovative solutions in areas such as fleet management, supply chain visibility, and maritime logistics.

From data-driven route optimization to advanced cargo tracking systems, private equity-backed shipping companies are poised to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer experiences. These investments align with the industry’s ongoing efforts to streamline operations in a globally interconnected marketplace.

Eco-Friendly Shipping Solutions

The push for sustainability is also reshaping the shipping landscape, and private equity is taking note. Companies specializing in environmentally friendly technologies, such as alternative fuels, vessel electrification, and emission reduction strategies, are attracting investments from firms aiming to contribute to the industry’s efforts in reducing its carbon footprint.

Private equity’s influence extends beyond financial support. It includes strategic guidance, industry expertise, and innovative thinking to drive the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies across the maritime sector.

Maritime Tech and Digitalization

The marriage of technology and maritime operations is reshaping the industry, and private equity firms are keen to be at the forefront of this transformation. Investments in shipping tech startups, digital platforms for cargo booking and tracking, and maritime data analytics are fostering a new era of streamlined operations and real-time decision-making.

By injecting capital into tech-driven shipping initiatives, private equity is accelerating the adoption of digital solutions that offer greater transparency, efficiency, and safety across the entire supply chain.

Risk Mitigation in a Volatile Sector

The shipping industry is no stranger to volatility, with fluctuating freight rates, geopolitical tensions, and regulatory changes impacting its dynamics. Private equity firms, leveraging their financial expertise, are stepping in to mitigate risks through strategic investments that support operational stability and expansion.

From enhancing financial management to optimizing fleet utilization, private equity-backed shipping companies are well-positioned to navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities amid market uncertainties.

Shipping2

Conclusion: Sailing into New Investment Frontiers

As the global shipping industry continues to evolve, private equity firms are charting new courses in pursuit of investment opportunities that align with their expertise and vision. The sector’s convergence with technology, sustainability imperatives, and operational innovation is creating a fertile ground for private equity-backed initiatives to thrive.

With a blend of financial backing and strategic guidance, private equity is reshaping the maritime landscape, steering the industry towards enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and growth in a complex global trade environment. As the tides of change continue to shape the shipping sector, private equity’s involvement promises to leave an indelible mark on the future of maritime operations.

Categories: Insights

LOGISTEC Corporation enters into definitive agreement to be acquired by Blue Wolf Capital Partners

LOGISTEC shareholders to receive $67.00 in cash per share pursuant to the transaction

Blue Wolf to maintain head office in Québec with significant investment for future growth initiatives

Montréal, Québec, October 16, 2023 – LOGISTEC Corporation (TSX: LGT.A LGT.B) (“LOGISTEC” or the “Corporation”) today announced that it has entered into an arrangement agreement (the “Arrangement Agreement”) with 1443373 B.C. Unlimited Liability Company (the “Purchaser”), an entity owned by certain funds managed by Blue Wolf Capital Partners LLC (“Blue Wolf”) in partnership with Stonepeak, a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets, pursuant to which the Purchaser will acquire all the issued and outstanding shares of the Corporation for $67.00 in cash per share, representing a total enterprise value of approximately $1.2 billion, subject to customary closing conditions.

The Arrangement Agreement is the culmination of an extensive and robust review of strategic alternatives available to maximize shareholder value that was conducted by a Special Committee of independent directors of the Corporation at the request of its principal shareholder, Sumanic Investments Inc.

The consideration offered under the transaction represents a 61.2% premium to the unaffected 20‑day volume-weighted average trading price per Class A Common Share and a 62.2% premium to the unaffected 20-day volume-weighted average trading price per Class B Subordinate Voting Share on the Toronto Stock Exchange on May 19, 2023, the last trading day prior to the announcement of the strategic review process, and a 14.5% premium to the 20-day volume-weighted average trading price per Class A Common Share and a 9.9% premium to the 20-day volume-weighted average trading price per Class B Subordinate Voting Share on the Toronto Stock Exchange on October 13, 2023.

“Since my father started this business more than 70 years ago, we have grown into industry leaders,” said Madeleine Paquin, President and Chief Executive Officer of LOGISTEC. “As we enter this next phase of our journey, we will continue to build a sustainable future by facilitating trade, handling our customers’ goods safely, and protecting our environment as well as our water resources for the next generation. We see significant opportunity to collaborate with Blue Wolf to drive value creation for our people, our customers, and our communities while rewarding our existing shareholders with an attractive cash consideration providing immediate and fair value for their shares.”

“After a comprehensive and rigorous strategic review process, we are pleased to have agreed terms on a transaction with Blue Wolf that has the full support of LOGISTEC’s Board of Directors and Special Committee,” said J. Mark Rodger, LOGISTEC’s Chairman of the Board of Directors and of its Special Committee. “After careful deliberation, the Special Committee and the Board of Directors have unanimously concluded that the transaction is fair to LOGISTEC’s shareholders and is in the best interests of LOGISTEC and its employees and other stakeholders.”

LOGISTEC will Remain a Quebec Based Business with Significant Blue Wolf Investment

“Blue Wolf is excited to enter the Québec market with this acquisition, which represents excellent prospects for continued growth for both of the Corporation’s business segments and throughout North America,” said Bennet Grill, Principal at Blue Wolf. Natalie Marjancik, Partner at Blue Wolf, added, “We are committed to maintaining LOGISTEC’s core values of quality and innovative services, respect for people and the environment. We look forward to continued growth and working alongside the current management teams in place in Québec and elsewhere.”

Blue Wolf’s business plan is anchored in making significant contributions to the business and to the Québec and Canadian economy, including:

  • Maintaining LOGISTEC’s head office in the Province of Québec;
  • Working with the current management teams to drive continued growth in the operations and employment of the business;
  • Future investment of more than $200 million in capital expenditures and growth initiatives; and
  • Continuing contributions to current charitable and social causes in Québec supported by LOGISTEC.

Other Investment Partners

Blue Wolf is funding its portion of the purchase price with capital it manages on behalf of its limited partners via private equity fund capital as well as select co-investors, together with an additional preferred investment in the Purchaser by Stonepeak.

“The specialized services LOGISTEC provides through its terminal operations to a diversified global customer base make it a quality infrastructure asset,” said James Wyper, Senior Managing Director at Stonepeak. “Between its Marine Services and Environmental Services business, which is focused on rehabilitating aging water infrastructure and remediating soil, we believe in the compelling opportunities for growth and in the future success of LOGISTEC. We are excited to support the Corporation, in partnership with Blue Wolf, in its next chapter.”

“The gouvernement du Québec through Investissement Québec is in discussion with Blue Wolf for a potential investment in the Corporation,” said Guy LeBlanc, President and CEO of Investissement Québec (“IQ“). “IQ’s potential participation in the Corporation will support Blue Wolf’s commitment to maintain LOGISTEC’s headquarters and operations in Québec and to continue to make investments in Québec. We would like to thank and congratulate the Paquin Family for having built a sector champion solidly anchored in Québec.”

LOGISTEC Board Recommendation

LOGISTEC’s Board of Directors has evaluated the Arrangement Agreement with the Corporation’s management and legal and financial advisors, and following the receipt and review of the unanimous recommendation of the Special Committee, the Board of Directors has unanimously determined that the transaction is in the best interests of LOGISTEC and is fair to its shareholders, and unanimously recommends that LOGISTEC’s shareholders approve the transaction.

Each of TD Securities Inc., as exclusive financial advisor to the Corporation, and Blair Franklin Capital Partners Inc., as independent financial advisor to the Special Committee, has provided a fairness opinion to the Board of Directors and the Special Committee, respectively, to the effect that, as of the date thereof, and based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications stated therein, the consideration to be received by LOGISTEC shareholders under the transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to such shareholders.

Transaction Details

The transaction will be implemented by way of a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Québec) and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals and clearances in Canada and the United States, LOGISTEC shareholder approval and Court approval. The transaction is not subject to any financing condition.

Required LOGISTEC shareholder approval for the transaction will consist of at least 66⅔% of the votes cast on the transaction by holders of Class A Common Shares and Class B Subordinate Voting Shares voting together as a single class at a special meeting of LOGISTEC shareholders. Concurrently with the execution of the Arrangement Agreement, the Purchaser has entered into a voting support agreement with Sumanic Investments Inc., holding Class A Common Shares and Class B Subordinate Voting Shares representing approximately 77% of the voting rights attached to the issued and outstanding shares of the Corporation, and voting support agreements with each of the directors and executive officers who own shares of the Corporation, pursuant to which they have agreed to vote all shares held by them in favour of the transaction, subject to customary exceptions.

The Arrangement Agreement contains non-solicitation covenants on the part of the Corporation, subject to the customary “fiduciary out” provisions. A termination fee of $32 million would be payable by the Corporation to the Purchaser in certain circumstances, including in the context of a superior proposal supported by the Corporation. The Corporation would also be entitled to a reverse termination fee of $59 million if the transaction is not completed in certain circumstances.

Following completion of the transaction, the Corporation will become a privately held company and will apply to cease to be a reporting issuer under Canadian securities laws and the Class A Common Shares and Class B Subordinate Voting Shares will no longer be publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Additional information regarding the transaction will be included in an information circular that LOGISTEC will prepare, file and mail to LOGISTEC shareholders in advance of the special meeting to be held to consider and approve the transaction. Copies of the Arrangement Agreement and the information circular will be available under the Corporation’s profile on SEDAR+ on www.sedarplus.ca.

Advisors

TD Securities Inc. is acting as exclusive financial advisor to the Corporation and Blair Franklin Capital Partners Inc. is acting as independent financial advisor to the Special Committee. Rothschild & Co is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Blue Wolf. Stikeman Elliott LLP is acting as independent legal advisor to the Special Committee and Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP and K&L Gates LLP as legal advisors to the Corporation. McCarthy Tétrault LLP and Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP are acting as legal advisors to Blue Wolf. Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP is acting as legal advisor to Sumanic Investments Inc.

About LOGISTEC Corporation

LOGISTEC Corporation is based in Montréal (QC) and provides specialized services to the marine community and industrial companies in the areas of bulk, break-bulk and container cargo handling in 60 ports and 90 terminals located in North America. LOGISTEC also offers marine transportation services geared primarily to the Arctic coastal trade as well as marine agency services to shipowners and operators serving the Canadian market. Furthermore, the Corporation operates in the environmental industry where it provides services to industrial, municipal, and other governmental customers for the renewal of underground water mains, dredging, dewatering, contaminated soils and materials management, site remediation, risk assessment, and manufacturing of fluid transportation products.

The Corporation has been profitable and has paid regular dividends since becoming public and payments have grown steadily over the years. A public company since 1969, LOGISTEC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbols LGT.A and LGT.B. More information can be obtained on the Corporation’s website at www.logistec.com.

About Blue Wolf Capital Partners

Blue Wolf Capital Partners LLC is a private equity firm that focuses on value investments in middle market companies in the healthcare and industrial sectors. The firm’s integrated team of investment professionals and veteran operating executives work collaboratively to generate returns by driving transformational change using operational and strategic experience. Blue Wolf seeks to invest in businesses that have catalysts for value creation that involve organizational transformation, complex union or human capital issues, significant government presence,  or the opportunity to use ESG-informed strategies. For additional information, please visit www.bluewolfcapital.com.

About Stonepeak

Stonepeak is a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets with approximately $57.1 billion of assets under management. Through its investment in defensive, hard-asset businesses globally, Stonepeak aims to create value for its investors and portfolio companies, and to have a positive impact on the communities in which it operates. Stonepeak sponsors investment vehicles focused on private equity and credit. The firm provides capital, operational support, and committed partnership to sustainably grow investments in its target sectors, which include communications, energy and energy transition, transport and logistics, social infrastructure, and real estate. Stonepeak is headquartered in New York with offices in Hong Kong, Houston, London, Singapore, and Sydney. For more information, please visit www.stonepeak.com.

Early Warning Disclosure

As at the date hereof, Sumanic Investments Inc. (“Sumanic”) owns 5,802,578 Class A Common Shares and 6,600 Class B Subordinate Voting Shares, representing approximately 45% of the issued and outstanding shares of LOGISTEC and 77% of the outstanding votes of LOGISTEC, and currently files early warning reports pursuant to the requirements of Regulation 62-104 respecting Take-Over Bids and lssuer Bids and Regulation 62-103 respecting the Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and lnsider Reporting Issues with respect to LOGISTEC. An amended early warning report, stating that Sumanic has entered into a support and voting agreement with the Purchaser pursuant to which it has agreed to vote, at the special meeting of the shareholders of LOGISTEC, in favour of the arrangement contemplated by the Arrangement Agreement will be filed with the applicable securities commissions and will be made available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Further information, including a copy of the early warning report may be obtained by contacting Madeleine Paquin, director of Sumanic at 514-237-2949 and Nicole Paquin, director of Sumanic, at 514-212-2325.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information, within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, including statements relating to the anticipated benefits of the transaction for the Corporation and its stakeholders, regulatory, shareholder and Court approvals and the anticipated timing of completion of the transaction. These forward-looking statements express, as of the date of this press release, the estimates, predictions, projections, expectations, or opinions of the Corporation about future events or results, including the ability of the parties to receive, in a timely manner and on satisfactory terms, the necessary regulatory, shareholder and Court approvals, the ability of the parties to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions to the closing of the transaction and the completion of the transaction on expected terms, the impact of the transaction and the dedication of substantial resources from the Corporation to pursuing the transaction on the Corporation’s ability to maintain its current business relationships and its current and future operations, financial condition and prospects and statements relating to IQ’s potential participation in the transaction and any potential related undertakings in connection therewith. Although the Corporation believes that the expectations produced by these forward-looking statements are founded on valid and reasonable bases and assumptions, these forward-looking statements are inherently subject to important uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Corporation’s control, such that the Corporation’s performance may differ significantly from the predicted performance expressed or presented in such forward-looking statements. The important risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results and future events to differ significantly from the expectations currently expressed include the possibility that the transaction will not be completed on the terms and conditions, or on the timing, currently contemplated, and that it may not be completed at all, due to a failure to obtain or satisfy, in a timely manner or otherwise, required regulatory, shareholder and Court approvals and other conditions to the closing of the transaction or for other reasons; the failure to complete the transaction which could negatively impact the price of the shares or otherwise affect the business of the Corporation; the dedication of significant resources to pursuing the transaction and the restrictions imposed on the Corporation while the transaction is pending; the uncertainty surrounding the transaction that could adversely affect the Corporation’s retention of customers and business partners; the occurrence of a material adverse effect leading to the termination of the Arrangement Agreement, as well as the additional risks and uncertainties examined under business risks in the Corporation’s 2022 annual report. The transaction contemplated in this press release is not contingent on IQ’s participation in the transaction. The reader of this press release is thus cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

For further information:

Investors

Carl Delisle, CPA auditor
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
LOGISTEC Corporation
cdelisle@logistec.com
(514) 985-2390

Media

Mary-Chantal Savoy
Vice-President, Strategy and Communications
LOGISTEC Corporation
Phone: (514) 985-2337
msavoy@logistec.com

For Enquiries about Blue Wolf

Anna Fernandes
Ryan Public Affairs & Communications
anna@ryanap.com
(514) 973-6016

For Enquiries about Stonepeak

Kate Beers / Maya Brounstein
Communications
corporatecomms@stonepeak.com
+1 (212) 907-5100

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Pole Star Global Acquires StratumFive Group, Expanding Its Coverage in Fleet Monitoring & Voyage Optimisation for the Global Commercial Flee

Abry Partners logo

Combined offering expands Pole Star’s industry leading fleet coverage and complements its leadership in vessel sanctions and monitoring.

[London, October 16, 2023] – Pole Star Global, the pioneer and market leader in maritime intelligence technology, with the largest blue water fleet under management, is pleased to announce its successful acquisition of StratumFive Group, a prominent maritime tech company. StratumFive’s Podium5, an award winning voyage informatics platform, brings together fleet monitoring, regulatory compliance, performance analytics and voyage optimisation into one powerful platform.

The acquisition of StratumFive represents a natural progression for Pole Star Global, as both companies share a deep-rooted dedication to delivering innovative solutions that empower the maritime community. The combination expands Pole Star’s industry leading fleet coverage and complements its leadership in vessel compliance and tracking solutions, with PurpleTRAC and MDA, used by leading government agencies, global banks and vessel operators globally. The Podium5 platform leverages the previously acquired FleetWeather capability, with a proven track record of enhancing vessel performance and safety through advanced model-based route optimisation.

“We are excited to welcome StratumFive into the Pole Star family” said Bob Skea, CEO of Pole Star Global. “By joining forces, we are reaffirming our commitment to innovation for our customers. The Podium5 platform not only enhances our capabilities in vital voyage analytics, but also accelerates our efforts with vessel emissions transparency and planning, which is critical as we enable trusted partners throughout the maritime network. We are excited to be working with Stuart, Ross and team.”

Commenting on the acquisition, Stuart Nicholls, Founder of StratumFive Group, said, “We are excited to become part of the Pole Star family. This partnership will allow us to accelerate the development of innovative solutions that will further transform the maritime industry. Together, we will continue to provide our customers with the best-in-class services and support they expect.”

Stuart Nicholls and StratumFive CEO Ross Martin will join Pole Star in newly created leadership positions to ensure continuity for customers and partners.

Said Ross Martin, CEO, StratumFive Group, “Podium5 provides the solution that our industry desperately needs to realise digitalisation and other operational efficiencies around shipping. Our outreach to the sector throughout Podium’s development has shown that it is a gamechanger for decision-making. We are extremely excited to be working with Pole Star to drive digital prosperity across our industry.’’

About Pole Star

Pole Star Global is trusted by the world’s top regulatory entities and is the only company in the world that operates at the epicentre of the maritime ecosystem by connecting government agencies, financial markets & ship owners and operators. Stakeholders depend on Pole Star to assess responsible actors and bridge the gap between service providers, regulators, and funders. Our unrivalled predictive maritime Insights, data, and expertise enable our customers to act responsibly in the areas of trade finance, emissions control, life at sea, surveillance, sanctions avoidance, and operational and reputational risk management.

About StratumFive

StratumFive Group has been a trusted provider of leading software solutions to the commercial shipping community for more than a decade. Its global network includes the previously acquired FleetWeather operations centre in the USA and its 50-year history of service excellence.  At the beginning of 2022, the group launched Podium5, an advanced voyage informatics platform.  Podium5 empowers maritime operators to save time, save fuel, reduce emissions, and ensure regulatory compliance – all whilst ensuring the utmost safety of crew, vessel and cargo.

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GuidePoint Security Attracts New Round of Growth Capital

Audax Group

HERNDON, Va. — GuidePoint Security, a cybersecurity solutions leader enabling organizations to make smarter decisions and minimize risk, today announced the closing of a funding round led by Audax Private Equity, a leading alternative investment manager and capital partner to middle market companies. GuidePoint will leverage the investment to further accelerate growth across the United States and expand internationally. Terms of the new investment are not disclosed.

“As the complexity of the cybersecurity landscape becomes more pronounced — with ever evolving threats, thousands of products, and continued resource challenges — demand for our services and solutions has never been higher,” said Michael Volk, Chairman and CEO of GuidePoint Security. “We attribute this consistent and continued rapid growth to our steadfast commitment to partnering with our customers to solve their cybersecurity challenges. We’ve focused on hiring the best and brightest cybersecurity minds across the United States and investing in innovative service offerings to address new and emerging risks. Now with Audax Private Equity, we are set up to help even more customers across the U.S. and expand overseas.”

Founded in 2011, GuidePoint Security has become the trusted cybersecurity advisor to more than 3,800 organizations across the U.S., including one-third of the Fortune 50 and 40% of the Fortune 500, along with more than half of the U.S. government cabinet-level agencies. The company’s unique business model provides local engagement and delivery teams, national scale and purchasing power for industry-leading cybersecurity solutions, breadth and depth of cybersecurity expertise across all disciplines, and engagements that are tailored to each customer’s specific environment and needs.

“GuidePoint has distinguished itself as one of the premier providers of cybersecurity solutions, where local coverage, sophisticated technical skillsets, and industry expertise are crucial to address, mitigate and stay ahead of cyber risks,” noted Iveshu Bhatia, a Managing Director at Audax Private Equity. “Our investment experience in this area should prove beneficial as we work closely with the GuidePoint team to drive growth.”

“GuidePoint Security’s value proposition revolves around the team’s sophisticated technical skillset coupled with deep industry expertise,” added Tim Mack, Partner of Audax Private Equity. “We see a tremendous opportunity to invest in the company’s continued expansion and build upon its track record of growth over the last 12 years.”

Guggenheim Securities, LLC served as the exclusive financial advisor, while DLA Piper provided legal counsel. Kirkland & Ellis served in the same capacity to Audax Private Equity. ABS Capital Partners, a prior investor in GuidePoint Security, participated in the transaction.

ABOUT

About GuidePoint Security:

GuidePoint Security provides trusted cybersecurity expertise, solutions and services that help organizations make better decisions that minimize risk. Our experts act as your trusted advisor to understand your business and challenges, helping you through an evaluation of your cybersecurity posture and ecosystem to expose risks, optimize resources and implement best-fit solutions. GuidePoint’s unmatched expertise has enabled a third of Fortune 500 companies and more than half of the U.S. government cabinet-level agencies to improve their security posture and reduce risk. Learn more at www.guidepointsecurity.com.

About Audax Private Equity:

Based in Boston and San Francisco, Audax Private Equity is a leading middle market investment firm with approximately $18 billion of assets under management, over 210 employees, and 100-plus investment professionals. Since its founding in 1999, the firm has invested in more than 165 platforms and 1,200 add-on acquisitions. Through our disciplined Buy & Build approach, across six core industry verticals, Audax helps portfolio companies execute organic and inorganic growth initiatives that fuel revenue expansion, optimize operations, and significantly increase equity value. For more information, visit audaxprivateequity.com or follow Audax Private Equity on LinkedIn.

“GuidePoint Security’s value proposition revolves around the team’s sophisticated technical skillset coupled with deep industry expertise. We see a tremendous opportunity to invest in the company’s continued expansion and build upon its track record of growth over the last 12 years.”
Tim Mack
Partner, Audax Private Equity

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Invitation to the presentation of Ratos Interim report January-September 2023

Ratos

The Interim report January-September 2023 will be released on Monday 23 October at 07.00 CEST.

At 09.00 CEST will Jonas Wiström, President and CEO, and Jonas Ågrup, CFO, present the report.

The presentation can be followed on Youtube via the following link; https://youtube.com/live/zmOVIGWY3fg?feature=share
The live presentation will be recorded and is available afterwards via the same link.

Participants who wish to ask questions live are asked to pre-register, please send an e-mail to helena.jansson@ratos.com in advance for a personal invitation.

The presentation and report will be available on www.ratos.com after publication.

Representatives of the media are welcome to contact Josefine Uppling, VP Communication, for interview requests.

For further information
Josefine Uppling, Vice President Communication
+46 76 114 54 21
josefine.uppling@ratos.com

About Ratos
Ratos is a business group consisting of 16 companies divided into three business areas: Construction & Services, Consumer and Industry. The companies have approximately SEK 33 billion in net sales (LTM). Our business concept is to own and develop companies that are or can become market leaders. We have a distinct corporate culture and strategy – everything we do is based on our core values: Simplicity, Speed in execution and It’s All About People. We enable independent companies to excel by being part of something larger. People, leadership, culture and values are key focus areas.

Categories: News

Conclusion acquires Portuguese Neotalent

NPM Capital

Conclusion acquires Portuguese Neotalent

Business transformation and IT service provider Conclusion has reached an agreement with the investment company Novabase to acquire the leading Portuguese organization Neotalent, a specialist in recruiting and deploying IT talent. The organization currently employs over 800 experienced specialists in high-demand technology areas such as software development, data analysis, cloud services and engineering. Neotalent has been steadily growing in recent years and provides nearshore and onshore solutions to renowned companies in Portugal and Spain. As part of Conclusion, Neotalent is ideally positioned to strengthen Dutch customer teams, enabling them to meet the high demand for qualified multidisciplinary teams. The acquisition of Neotalent will take place in the coming months, subject to the verification of certain customary conditions typically associated with similar transactions, including the approval of the Portuguese competition authority.

 

Engbert Verkoren, CEO of Conclusion, says, “Welcoming Neotalent is a significant step for Conclusion. With this addition to our ecosystem, we attain the necessary capacity to provide effective nearshore services as an integral part of our overall service, addressing the business and IT challenges of our clients. Compared to Portuguese competitors, Neotalent has proven to be very successful in finding the right people in the tight Portuguese labor market. Furthermore, Neotalent’s management is capable of forming long-term relationships with both employees and customers by investing in talent development and promoting a culture centered around responsibility and collaboration. We support the further development of Neotalent into a full-service IT provider, both in Portugal and Spain and beyond.”

 

Álvaro José Ferreira, a member of Novabase’s Board of Directors, states, “This agreement accelerates Novabase’s growth strategy by dedicating all our resources and energy to the international expansion of the NextGen business, particularly in the area of cognitive and analytics. At the same time, we believe that Neotalent, through integration into Conclusion’s ecosystem, can continue to operate autonomously while maintaining its identity. By combining this with the highly qualified management team and the group of skilled professionals, Neotalent can propel its further development as a best-in-class nearshore player.”

 

Célia Vieira, director of Neotalent, regarding the acquisition, says, “This is an important moment for Neotalent. By being part of an international player like Conclusion, we can enter new markets and take on new business challenges, leveraging the extensive and high-quality services and solutions portfolio of the group. We see a great opportunity to combine our growth ambition with Conclusion’s ambition to establish a strong nearshore capacity. This also aligns with our mission to become a European reference player in our sector. We are pleased to join the Conclusion’s ecosystem. This offers growth opportunities for all of us and enhances the business appeal of our company.”

 

About Neotalent

Neotalent has 25 years of experience in delivering and managing IT talent services to meet the business needs of companies in various sectors and markets. Currently, more than 800 specialized professionals work at Neotalent. With offices in Portugal and Spain, Neotalent is a leading IT & Engineering service partner that combines the best technical expertise with an agile way of thinking to strengthen businesses and make organizations successful.

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xxllnc acquires Processfive, backed by Main Capital Partners

xxllnc, a leader in GovTech software, expands its market position with the acquisition of tax software company Processfive.

xxllnc, a leader in GovTech software, expands its market position with the acquisition of tax software company Processfive. By joining forces with Processfive, xxllnc can expand its current suite of tax applications and offer a complete solution within the tax domain. The combination of Processfive marks the eleventh acquisition of xxllnc since its partnership with software investor Main Capital Partners.

Processfive is a specialist in providing software and services for (semi-)governmental organizations active in the tax domain. Among other things, Processfive’s solutions support customers in object registration, process inspection, quality control and reporting back of data to the basic registers. Processfive customers include the municipalities of Rotterdam and The Hague as well as Waternet and BghU.

The company is located in Alphen aan den Rijn and has approximately 18 employees. The current shareholders and management of Processfive – consisting of Rogier Noordam, Jeroen Prins and Maarten Stam – will become co-shareholders in xxllnc and will also remain active within the broader organization. xxllnc is a portfolio company of Main Capital Partners, a strategic investor in the software industry focused on accelerating growth and creating business value.

By joining forces, xxllnc and Processfive will be able to provide customers with a broader range of products and services. Through the collaboration, xxllnc strengthens its market-leading position within the tax segment. The experience and knowledge of Processfive will continue to be deployed within the broader xxllnc organization. Processfive’s expertise and knowledge will be invaluable assets for xxllnc, and customers will continue to benefit from the same high-quality service and operations they are accustomed to.

xxllnc, formerly known as Exxellence Groep, started in 2001 as a spin-off of the University of Twente and grew into a leading software supplier with more than 400 employees and a range of solutions for the Dutch (semi-)governmental sector. Customers of xxllnc include Municipalities of The Hague, Leiden and Utrecht, as well as UWV. The company has added eleven software companies since it came under the wings of Main Capital Partners in 2020.

Michel Veenhuis, CEO of xxllnc, mentions: “We are very excited about the cooperation with the Processfive team with whom we can further broaden our product offering and expand our knowledge.”

Charly Zwemstra, Managing Partner Main Capital Partners & Chief Investment Officer, concludes: “The combination between xxllnc and Processfive is yet another step for the company to strengthen its position as a complete and innovative player. Processfive has made good strides in recent years, making it a valuable addition to the organization.”

The combination between xxllnc and Processfive is yet another step for the company to strengthen its position as a complete and innovative player.

– Charly Zwemstra, Managing Partner & Chief Investment Officer at Main Capital Partners

About

Processfive

Processfive, founded in 2013, is a specialist in providing software that supports governments in the tax domain. In cooperation with its customers, Processfive develops innovative software solutions that provide support in the area of taxes. Among other things, Processfive’s solutions support customers with process inspection and quality control. Processfive has c. 18 employees and is based in Alphen aan de Rijn.

xxllnc

xxllnc provides smart scalable apps for the government and semi-government. Applications that support case management, data integration, taxation, social affairs and spatial planning. To take GovTech to the next level, xxllnc builds an ecosystem where everything works seamlessly together. The perfect combination of applications from the cloud and support from subject matter professionals. Meanwhile, the team consisting of hundreds of specialists is based in Hengelo, Amsterdam, Veenendaal and Eindhoven.

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CapMan Nordic Property Income Fund (non-UCITS) sells a warehouse property in Skovlunde, Denmark

Capman

CapMan Nordic Property Income Fund (non-UCITS) sells a warehouse property in Skovlunde, Denmark

CapMan Nordic Property Income Fund (non-UCITS) sells Tonsbakken 12–14, a warehouse property situated in Skovlunde, greater Copenhagen, Denmark. The fund acquired the property in 2018 and is selling it now for redevelopment to two separate parties, Nordic data centre services company atNorth and Danish property developer Propreco.

”We are very happy about this divestment. It is a testament of our investment approach where we invest in properties and locations that demonstrate liquidity in all phases of the cycle. This active portfolio management enables us to continue with our stock picking approach and look for new investments where we see attractive opportunities”, says Mika Matikainen, Portfolio Manager of the fund and Managing Partner at CapMan Real Estate.

CapMan Real Estate manages approximately €4.2 billion in real estate assets and the Real Estate Team comprises over 70 real estate professionals located in Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo and London.

CapMan Nordic Property Income Fund (“CMNPI”) is a non-UCITS active open-ended fund that distributes a minimum of 75% of its annual realised profit to its unit holders. The fund has an established sustainability strategy and it received four stars in its 2023 GRESB* assessment. The fund focuses on stable income generating properties such as light industrial and warehouse properties, modern offices, selected retail assets and niche properties in the living sector in most liquid Nordic cities with solid long-term growth fundamentals. The fund accepts new subscriptions on a quarterly basis and targets 7% annual net return.**

* GRESB assesses and compares the ESG performance of real assets globally and has become the go-to benchmark for asset managers and investors when it comes to ESG performance of different funds and companies. GRESB ratings range from one to five stars.

** Past performance is no guarantee for future returns.

For more information, please contact:

Peter Gill, Partner and Head of CapMan Real Estate Denmark, +45 20 43 55 63

Mika Matikainen, Portfolio Manager of CMNPI and Managing Partner and CEO at CapMan Real Estate, tel. +358 40 519 0707

About CapMan

CapMan is a leading Nordic private asset expert with an active approach to value creation. As one of the private equity pioneers in the Nordics we have built value in unlisted businesses, real estate, and infrastructure for over three decades. With €5.1 billion in assets under management, our objective is to provide attractive returns and innovative solutions to investors. We have set greenhouse gas reduction targets under the Science Based Targets initiative in line with the 1.5°C scenario. We have a broad presence in the unlisted market through our local and specialised teams. Our investment strategies cover minority and majority investments in portfolio companies and real estate, and infrastructure assets. We also provide wealth management solutions. Our service business consists of procurement services. Altogether, CapMan employs approximately 180 professionals in Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, London and Luxembourg. We are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki since 2001. Learn more at www.capman.com.

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DIF Capital Partners closes credit facility with innovative ESG performance criteria

DIF

DIF Capital Partners (“DIF”) is pleased to announce that it has successfully extended its EUR 1.2 billion credit facility with its main group of lenders for another year until September 2024. As part of this deal, ESG-linked performance criteria have been added to the loan agreement.

The credit facility was closed by the DIF Infrastructure VII fund and is provided by a club of banks including ABN AMRO, BMO, BNP Paribas, HSBC, ING, National Bank of Canada, Rabobank and Santander CIB. ING Bank acted as Sustainability Coordinator.

The loan agreement has been amended to include KPIs for ESG performance, relating both to DIF as a manager and to the ESG performance improvement of the underlying portfolio.

The inclusion of these ESG KPIs in the credit agreement underlines DIF’s desire to positively contribute to a sustainable future. In return, the DIF Infrastructure VII fund benefits from a reduction in margin on the facility upon meeting those KPIs. If the fund does not meet these goals, it will pay a margin premium. This arrangement reflects the lenders’ own ESG positions and commitment to a sustainable future.

“We are delighted to again be working with our long-term lending partners on this innovative credit facility, featuring clear ESG KPIs. The close of this agreement confirms our commitment to delivering a positive contribution to a sustainable future,” said Gijs Voskuyl, Partner and Deputy CEO at DIF.

 

About DIF Capital Partners

DIF Capital Partners is an infrastructure fund manager with ca. EUR 16 billion of assets under management. DIF was founded in 2005 and has a leading position in managing mid-market investments, primarily in Europe, North America and Australia.

DIF follows two strategies: its traditional DIF funds invest in lower-risk mid-sized infrastructure projects and companies in the energy transition (incl. renewables) and utilities sector, as well as PPPs and concessions. The firm’s CIF funds invest in small to mid-sized companies that will thrive in the new economy. These companies are typically active in the digital infrastructure, energy transition and sustainable transportation sector.

With a team of over 225 professionals in 11 offices, DIF offers a unique market approach combining global presence with the benefits of strong local networks and investment capabilities. DIF is located in Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Helsinki, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, New York, Paris, Santiago, Sydney and Toronto.

For more information, please visit www.dif.eu or follow us on LinkedIn.

Contact DIF Capital Partners: press@dif.eu

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