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Ethyca Secures $10M Investment to Accelerate Enterprise Growth; Welcomes Mozilla, Axios, and Ramp as New Customers

AXA

Ethyca scales its mission to solve the most technical challenges in data privacy for modern enterprises.

Ethyca, the leader in data privacy engineering, today announced a $10 million funding round led by Aspenwood Ventures and AVP. The investment will drive Ethyca’s continued growth and support increasing demand for its enterprise-grade data privacy and AI governance platform. Ethyca has recently added industry leaders Mozilla, Axios, Remitly, and Ramp to its customer list, further solidifying its position as the leading provider for engineered data governance in the enterprise segment.

“At Ethyca, we’re tackling the most critical challenges in data governance—ethics and trust when it comes to data privacy, and all the compliance needs associated with it,” said Cillian Kieran, CEO of Ethyca. “This new funding combined with our rapid enterprise adoption validates our thesis that compliance and data are rapidly converging for the world’s biggest companies. Their need for a comprehensive data privacy solution is greater than ever and we are ready to solve the toughest challenges out there.”

The platform provides value by improving data visibility and governance for the enterprise segment, to help clients accelerate how they can use that data for their own growth. “Enterprises increasingly leverage proprietary data to anticipate and meet consumer needs,” Manish Agarwal, General Partner at AVP said. “The demand for sophisticated engineering tooling to handle private data will soar,” he continued, “and Ethyca is uniquely positioned to meet this critical demand.”

Manish added, “Our conversations with dozens of data privacy software buyers at enterprises highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with current solutions, often seen as lacking robust backend infrastructure for comprehensive data privacy management.” Mozilla, Axios and Ramp, among many others in 2024, have all made the switch to Ethyca after discovering the breadth and depth of Ethyca’s solution compared to legacy providers and upstart market competitors.

“Ethyca has raised the bar for the privacy sector,” Lars Leckie, Managing Director of Aspenwood said, “and has set a new bar for actually doing the management and deletion of data – this is both what consumers expect and want.” The company’s novel, engineering approach to data privacy is something that, Lars added, “no one else has figured out how to bring to market.”

Engineering Privacy for the Modern Enterprise

Ethyca’s ability to solve complex data governance challenges is underpinned by its open-source privacy engineering solution, Fides. Now the most widely adopted open-source privacy platform in the world, Fides powers privacy management for enterprises. Unlike traditional approaches, Fides integrates directly into technical infrastructure, allowing engineers to embed privacy at the core of their systems—delivering seamless compliance and data ethics at scale.

“Fides is a game changer for privacy engineering,” writes Neville Samuell, VP of Engineering at Ethyca. “It empowers engineers to operationalize privacy from the start, offering transparency and flexibility that traditional solutions can’t match. It’s more than just compliance—it’s about building automated tools for data management that can adapt to the evolving landscape of privacy regulations, instead of relying on patchwork processes.”

Strategic Vision for Growth

With the backing of Aspenwood Ventures and AVP, Ethyca is set to scale its impact globally. They are joining Ethyca’s existing investors, Des Traynor (Cofounder, Intercom), Guillermo Rauch (CEO, Vercel), Scott Belsky (CSO, Adobe) and Kevin Hartz (Cofounder, Eventbrite). This investment will go towards Ethyca enhancing key product capabilities and growing its team.

Today Ethyca also announces its new rebrand. These efforts along with continued investment in product development and customer success will lead Ethyca into a new growth phase in 2025. As the world’s largest organizations face increasing privacy complexities, Ethyca is primed to lead the charge, delivering practical, scalable solutions for the future of ethical data management.

About Ethyca

Ethyca is a world leader in data privacy and AI governance, offering engineer-first solutions for scalable data privacy systems for the modern enterprise. Trusted by leading companies across all sectors, including the New York Times, Surveymonkey, Mozilla, Axios and Ramp, Ethyca transforms how organizations engineer data privacy to build consumer trust and protect data for long-term growth. For more information, visit www.ethyca.com.

About Aspenwood Ventures

Aspenwood Ventures is a leading venture capital firm focused on early-stage enterprise software companies. With a strong track record of successful investments, Aspenwood has backed innovative companies that are transforming industries. The firm’s portfolio includes high-growth companies such as Mulesoft, Five9, Sonatype, Amberdata, MobileForce, Aria Systems, Wundergraph and Klue. By partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs Aspenwood is bringing the future of enterprise software to today.

​​About AVP

AVP is a global venture capital firm specializing in high-growth, technology-enabled companies, managing more than $2 billion in assets across four investment strategies: Venture, Growth, Late Stage, and Fund of Funds. Since its establishment in 2016, AVP has invested in more than 60 technology companies in Venture and Growth stages in the U.S. and Europe. With offices in New York, London, and Paris, AVP supports companies in expanding internationally and provides portfolio companies with tailored business development opportunities to further accelerate their growth. For more information about AVP, please visit www.axavp.com.

Contacts
Ethyca
Michael Melia, Head of Marketing
press@ethyca.com
+1 (917) 830 3336

Aspenwood Ventures
Haley Etter, Executive Assistant (haley@aspenwoodvc.com)

AVP
Sébastien Loubry, Partner Business Development (sebastien@axavp.com)

Categories: News

TSG expands market presence with acquisition of Aerocar

Accent Equity

 

Stockholm, 5 December 2024

  • ThorSvecon Group (TSG) expands into southern Sweden with the acquisition of Aerocar Konsult (Aerocar), based in Helsingborg
  • The acquisition enables improved service delivery capabilities in key local markets such as Malmö, Helsingborg, and Gothenburg
  • Aerocar’s management has re-invested alongside Accent Equity and TSG management

TSG, a portfolio company of Accent Equity, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Helsingborg-based Aerocar. This strategic move strengthens TSG’s position in the freight forwarding sector and accelerates its growth by integrating Aerocar’s expertise and operational capabilities. The combined entity will offer an expanded and more competitive portfolio of logistics solutions to existing and new customers.

With this acquisition, TSG significantly enhances its footprint in southern Sweden, enabling improved service delivery in key markets including Malmö, Helsingborg, and Gothenburg.

Daniel Berglind, Head of TSG Forwarding, commented:

“The acquisition of Aerocar represents a key milestone in our growth strategy, reinforcing our presence in southern Sweden. Aerocar’s experience and capabilities allow us to extend our full suite of services across this critical region, enabling us to better support our clients in Malmö, Helsingborg, and Gothenburg.”

Founded in 2007, Aerocar has built a strong reputation in the forwarding industry, primarily serving the Helsingborg region while managing logistics operations across global markets.

Jonas Bengtsson, founder of Aerocar, expressed his optimism about the partnership:

“Becoming part of TSG is an exciting opportunity for Aerocar. This partnership enables us to leverage TSG’s local expertise and global network, providing our customers with a broader range of services. Both companies share a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit and a customer-centric focus, making this collaboration a natural fit for our growth ambitions.”

Aerocar’s operations in Helsingborg will continue under the current management team, who will also become shareholders in TSG, ensuring continuity and local expertise.

Looking ahead, TSG remains focused on its growth agenda. Daniel Berglind outlined the company’s future plans:

“This is our second acquisition in a short period and a testament to our commitment to expanding both organically and through strategic acquisitions. With the support of Accent Equity, we are well-positioned to pursue further growth opportunities and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers.”

For more information, please contact:
Mikael Strand, Associate Partner of Accent Equity, +46 70 542 50 01,
mikael.strand@accentequity.se

Eric Hjalmarsson, CEO ThorSvecon Group, +46 70 331 71 22,
eric.hjalmarsson@tsg.se

Daniel Berglind, Head of TSG Global Forwarding, +46 70 591 41 65,
daniel.berglind@tsg.se

About ThorSvecon Group:
ThorSvecon Group is a logistics company offering door to door sustainable solutions integrating short sea liner services, terminals, warehousing, forwarding and agency services. The group’s short sea liner service is calling ports in Sweden, UK, Netherlands, and Belgium. In the UK, the group operates a port terminal in the port of Hull.
www.tsg.se

About Aerocar Konsult:
Aerocar Konsult is a logistics company specializing in freight forwarding and related services. The company is dedicated to providing flexible, customer-specific solutions designed to manage complex and time-sensitive logistics needs. Established in 2007, Aerocar is headquartered in Helsingborg and serves clients with a global reach.
www.aerocar.se

About Accent Equity:
Accent Equity has since 1994 invested in private Nordic companies where a new partner or owner can serve as a catalyst. Our ambition is to invest in and develop the companies to be Nordic, European or Global leaders through a professional, hands-on and long-term oriented approach that results in superior and sustainable returns.
accentequity.se
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Categories: News

CVC DIF sells 169MW portfolio of Uruguayan wind farm projects to Pluspetrol

CVC Capital Partners
  • CVC DIF makes successful first divestment from Latin American portfolio
  • Operational improvements at the Cerro Grande and Peralta sites yielded significant efficiency gains
  • Peralta site saw all 50 towers upgraded as part of wide ranging value creation strategy

CVC DIF, the infrastructure strategy of leading global private markets manager CVC, is pleased to announce that DIF Infrastructure V (DIF V) and DIF Infrastructure VI (DIF VI) have completed the sale of the Cerro Grande and Peralta wind farm projects in Uruguay to Pluspetrol.

The portfolio represents the second largest private portfolio in Uruguay for renewable assets totalling more than 169MW of installed capacity across 72 Enercon E-92 turbines.

Cerro Grande is a c.52MW operational wind farm project acquired by DIF V in 2019. Peralta is a c.118MW operational wind farm acquired by DIF VI in 2021. During its ownership, CVC DIF successfully optimised operations at both sites, including delivering a project to upgrade all 50 towers at the Peralta site over an 18-month period.

Andrew Freeman, Partner and Head of Exits at CVC DIF, said: “We are excited to announce our first divestments in Latin America, marking a significant achievement for DIF V and DIF VI. These successful exits highlight the impact our proactive value creation approach can deliver.

CVC DIF continues to deliver superior returns for its investors whilst financing the energy transition. We remain committed to identifying and capitalizing on opportunities that drive both financial performance and sustainable growth.”

DIF V and DIF VI were advised on the transaction by Scotiabank (financial), Herbert Smith Freehills (legal, corporate) and Hughes & Hughes (legal, project).

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Apollo Funds Acquire 50% Stake in 2 GW Texas Solar and BESS Portfolio from TotalEnergies

Apollo logo

NEW YORK, Dec. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo (NYSE: APO) today announced that funds managed by Apollo affiliates (the “Apollo Funds”) have agreed to acquire a 50% stake in a Texas solar and battery energy storage system (“BESS”) portfolio from TotalEnergies. The portfolio includes approximately 2 GW of solar and BESS assets in strategic locations in Texas’ ERCOT market, consisting of three solar projects with a total capacity of 1.7 GW and two battery storage projects with a combined capacity of 300 MW. TotalEnergies will retain a 50% stake in the portfolio and continue to operate the assets, which include Danish Fields, Cottonwood and Hill Solar I.

Apollo Partner Brad Fierstein said, “We are pleased to partner with TotalEnergies, a leading energy company at the forefront of the energy transition, and to invest in a highly contracted, scaled renewable asset portfolio. Apollo’s Clean Transition strategy enables us to be a flexible and long-term capital partner, supporting the growth of TotalEnergies’ Integrated Power business and capital recycling strategy.”

Over the past five years, Apollo-managed funds have deployed approximately $40 billioni into energy transition and sustainability-related investments, supporting companies and projects across clean energy and infrastructure, including offshore and onshore wind, solar, storage, renewable fuels, electric vehicles as well as a wide range of technologies to facilitate decarbonization. Across asset classes, Apollo targets deploying $50 billion in clean energy and climate investments through 2027 and sees the opportunity to deploy more than $100 billion by 2030.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed in Q4 2024.

About Apollo

Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of September 30, 2024, Apollo had approximately $733 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

Apollo Contacts

Noah Gunn
Global Head of Investor Relations
Apollo Global Management, Inc.
(212) 822-0540
IR@apollo.com

Joanna Rose
Global Head of Corporate Communications
Apollo Global Management, Inc.
(212) 822-0491
Communications@apollo.com

________________
i As of June 30, 2024. Deployment commensurate with Apollo’s proprietary Climate and Transition Investment Framework, which provides guidelines and metrics with respect to the definition of a climate or transition investment. Reflects (a) for equity investments: (i) total enterprise value at time of signed commitment for initial equity commitments; (ii) additional capital contributions from Apollo funds and co-invest vehicles for follow-on equity investments; and (iii) contractual commitments of Apollo funds and co-invest vehicles at the time of initial commitment for preferred equity investments; (b) for debt investments: (i) total facility size for Apollo originated debt, warehouse facilities, or fund financings; (ii) purchase price on the settlement date for private non-traded debt; (iii) increases in maximum exposure on a period-over-period basis for publicly-traded debt; (iv) total capital organized on the settlement date for syndicated debt; and (v) contractual commitments of Apollo funds and co-invest vehicles as of the closing date for real estate debt; (c) for SPACs, the total sponsor equity and capital organized as of the respective announcement dates; (d) for platform acquisitions, the purchase price on the signed commitment date; and (e) for platform originations, the gross origination value on the origination date.

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Kian Capital’s Forensic Engineering Platform Sdii Global Expands with Roar Engineering Acquisition

Kian Capital

Kian Capital-backed Sdii Global, LLC (“Sdii”), a forensic engineering and consulting firm primarily supporting claim resolution for the property and casualty (“P&C”) insurance industry, completed the acquisition of Roar Engineering Inc. (“Roar”).

Founded in 2015 and based in Mississauga, Ontario, Roar Engineering is a leading Canadian forensic engineering firm providing comprehensive investigations and reports to help clients successfully navigate insurance claims and disputes. The Roar team brings trial-tested expertise across numerous engineering disciplines, enabling it to serve as a one-stop-shop solution for its customer base.

As a combined platform, the duo represents an industry-leading forensic engineering services provider, offering considerable geographic and portfolio breadth and depth while maintaining the outstanding reputation of excellence each firm has earned. Roar and Sdii will continue to operate independently while sharing cross-platform resources to further enhance client outcomes.

“Roar and Sdii share a foundational and ever-present commitment to providing clients with high-quality expert support through world-class investigative techniques and meticulous reporting,” said Roar Co-Founder and Co-CEO Michael Rochon. “It was important for Roar to find a partner that held itself to the same high customer service standards, and we’re proud to say we found that in Sdii.”

“With the establishment of the partnership, Roar and Sdii will be able to offer increased client benefits with deeper expert resources, a larger geographic footprint and a continued emphasis on rapid response times, furthering our commitment to providing a top-tier client experience,” added Roar Co-Founder and Co-CEO Vincent Rochon.

Moving forward, the business plans to continue growing its geographic presence and portfolio of services through organic and strategic M&A efforts. The acquisition expands the platform into Canada, and the team will continue to deepen its North American presence in the years to come.

“In addition to large-scale geographic coverage, Roar brings diversification to the platform’s portfolio with its focus on fire and explosion investigation, accident reconstruction, electrical engineering, metallurgical engineering, environmental engineering and mechanical engineering, which complement Sdii’s core civil, structural, environmental and geotechnical business lines nicely,” said Sdii President Catherine Carty. “We’re thrilled to establish this partnership that will foster growth in these areas and expand service offerings for clients across Canada and the U.S., which will now include solutions for the automobile and marine sectors of the P&C industry.”

Kian completed a strategic majority investment in Sdii in 2022, but the firm has supported the company’s strategy since 2016, when it provided senior secured debt to facilitate a management-led buyout.

“This partnership perfectly aligns with Sdii’s growth strategy,” said Kian Partner Scott Buschmann. “Adding Roar to the portfolio expands Sdii’s geographic presence and service line offerings, driving us one step closer to our mission of growing from a regional leader to a national leader with international reach.”

Sdii is actively seeking additional partnerships with founders in forensic engineering and consulting, including electrical, mechanical and structural forensic engineering, fire and explosion investigation, accident reconstruction, failure analysis, biochemical and human factors engineering and building consulting. Business owners interested in learning more should contact David Duke, Partner, Business Development at Kian, at dduke@kiancapital.com.

Disclaimer

This article does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase any investments or securities, including any securities of Kian Capital (“Kian”), or any funds or accounts managed or advised by Kian in any jurisdiction in which such an offer or solicitation is not authorized or to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation.

Any such offer or solicitation may be made only by means of the delivery of a confidential private offering memorandum (the “Memorandum”), which will contain material information not included herein regarding, among other things, information with respect to risks and potential conflicts of interest, and other offering and governance documents of any given fund or account (collectively with the Memorandum, the “Fund Documents”).

In addition to large-scale geographic coverage, Roar brings diversification to the platform’s portfolio with its focus on fire and explosion investigation, accident reconstruction, electrical engineering, metallurgical engineering, environmental engineering and mechanical engineering, which complement Sdii’s core civil, structural, environmental and geotechnical business lines nicely. We’re thrilled to establish this partnership that will foster growth in these areas and expand service offerings for clients across Canada and the U.S., which will now include solutions for the automobile and marine sectors of the P&C industry.

 

 

Catherine Carty
President of Sdii Global

Sdii Global

Sdii Global is an industry-leading forensic engineering and consulting firm delivering innovative solutions and expert opinions to help clients resolve complex challenges. Specializing in accurate, timely analyses, Sdii’s team of experienced professionals brings unparalleled quality and expertise to every project. Its expert technical staff is comprised of licensed geologists, geotechnical engineers, civil/structural engineers, scientists and fire origin and cause investigators. The company’s unique technology-driven approach provides real-time project status updates to clients and demonstrates its dedication to customer service excellence. Whether it’s timely property insurance claims resolution assistance or comprehensive litigation support services, Sdii Global has the specialized expertise to deliver effective solutions.

In addition to large-scale geographic coverage, Roar brings diversification to the platform’s portfolio with its focus on fire and explosion investigation, accident reconstruction, electrical engineering, metallurgical engineering, environmental engineering and mechanical engineering, which complement Sdii’s core civil, structural, environmental and geotechnical business lines nicely. We’re thrilled to establish this partnership that will foster growth in these areas and expand service offerings for clients across Canada and the U.S., which will now include solutions for the automobile and marine sectors of the P&C industry.

 

 

Catherine Carty
President of Sdii Global

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KKR Announces New Managing Directors

KKR

December 4, 2024

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– KKR today announced a newly promoted group of 41 Managing Directors, effective January 1, 2025.

“We are proud to recognize and celebrate the advancement of these exceptional leaders at KKR. These promotions reflect not only each individual’s professional achievements but also their unwavering commitment both to upholding the firm’s values and to delivering for our clients, companies and shareholders,” said Joe Bae and Scott Nuttall, Co-Chief Executive Officers of KKR. “Congratulations to the new Managing Directors on reaching this significant milestone in their careers.”

The following individuals have been promoted to Managing Director at KKR:

  • Aidan Bailey – Compliance, Dublin
  • Projesh Banerjea – Infrastructure, Singapore
  • Julian Barratt-Due – Infrastructure, London
  • Alicia Biggs – Global Operations, New York
  • Kate Bizga – Global Client Solutions, New York
  • Loretta Chon – Communications & Marketing, New York
  • Stephanie Dash – Credit & Markets, Sydney
  • Steven Endersen – Global Operations, Dublin
  • Ellen Frye – Legal, New York
  • Sasha Hamilton – Investor Relations, New York
  • Joe Hughes – Global Operations, Dublin
  • Rachel Hunter-Goldman – Real Estate Credit, New York
  • Alex Hwang – Global Macro, Balance Sheet & Risk / KKR Solutions, New York
  • Spencer Ingle – Credit & Markets, New York
  • Desiree John – Enterprise Risk, New York
  • Akshat Khaitan – Credit & Markets, London
  • Johnny Kim – Health Care Strategic Growth, New York
  • Chresten Knaff – Private Equity, London
  • Katherine Kober – Global Finance, New York
  • Drew Kolmar – Credit & Markets, New York
  • Edna Kwong – Compliance, Hong Kong
  • Turia Lahlou – Credit & Markets, San Francisco
  • Jennifer McGroarty – Legal, New York
  • Simrun Mehta – Private Equity, Mumbai
  • Josh Metz – Global Client Solutions, Chicago
  • Ami Momaya – Infrastructure, Mumbai
  • Gio Onate – Global Client Solutions, Miami
  • Kevin O’Neill – Credit & Markets, New York
  • Michael Osborne – Real Estate Equity, San Francisco
  • Justin Park – Global Client Solutions, New York
  • Ben Pederson – Next Generation Technology, New York
  • Angela Pflug – Global Client Solutions, New York
  • Shannon Rutter – Global Client Solutions, New York
  • Philipp Schaelli – Private Equity, London
  • Richard Schoenfeld – Credit & Markets, Washington, D.C.
  • Laura Schroeder – Private Equity, Frankfurt
  • Angad Singh – Private Equity, New York
  • Jyo Sinha – Capstone, Menlo Park
  • Evelyn Stevens – Credit & Markets, San Francisco
  • Wei Xin – Credit & Markets, Hong Kong
  • Jacqueline Zhuang – Global Client Solutions, Singapore

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

Emily Cummings
(212) 750-8300
media@kkr.com

Source: KKR

 

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Categories: People

KKR Partners with Former Halma CEO Andrew Williams to Pursue Investments in the Industrials Sector and in the UK

KKR

LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced it is partnering with Andrew Williams, former long time CEO at Halma plc (“Halma”), to pursue new acquisition opportunities in the Industrials sector and more broadly across leading UK businesses. Andrew will assume the role of Executive Advisor to KKR.

Once a company has been acquired, KKR and Andrew will work together to support breakthrough operating performance and growth. KKR expects to support acquired businesses in implementing the broad-based employee ownership and engagement model that it has developed since 2011.

“We have long admired Andrew’s extraordinary success in building Halma’s consistent track record of profitable growth and are delighted to be teaming up with such a seasoned executive. Andrew closely shares our values of partnership and commitment to helping make good companies great,” said Mattia Caprioli and Philipp Freise, Partners and Co-Heads of European Private Equity at KKR.

“I am delighted to be partnering with KKR to find and make investments in world class companies and contributing my experience and capabilities to drive long term value creation. I have discovered that KKR is great fit for me, as we share a similar philosophy on growing businesses and particularly the importance of building the right culture and attracting, developing and rewarding exceptional talent at all levels,” said Andrew Williams.

Andrew has two decades of experience leading and overseeing high quality industrial companies, most recently serving as CEO of Halma from February 2005 through March 2023. Over the course of 18 years leading Halma, he completed over 100 transactions, and managed a global portfolio of around 50 leading high quality manufacturing businesses operating across safety, health and environmental end-markets. He established Halma’s Sustainable Growth Model, and evolved the company’s high performance and inclusive culture to deliver a sustained track record of resilient growth and outstanding shareholder return over more than twenty years.

“We see tremendous opportunities in the industrials sector and in the UK more broadly. We believe our partnership with Andrew offers a differentiated value proposition to a wide range of businesses seeking to unlock accelerated growth,” said Chris Drewsen, Director and leader of the Industrials investment group for KKR’s European Private Equity business.

KKR has been investing in the UK for 25 years and in April 2023 closed its European Fund VI, an $8 billion fund that invests in the growth of leading businesses by providing access to KKR’s extensive network and business building resources. KKR is also a founding partner of the cross-sector initiative Ownership Works, a nonprofit on a mission to increase prosperity by developing and implementing broad-based employee ownership programs.

About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

Media Contact:
Miles Radcliffe-Trenner
kkrpr-uk@kkr.com

Source: KKR

 

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Categories: People

Gimv acquires Groupe Tibbloc, leader in rental of ready-to-use temporary energy solutions and related services, from Ciclad

GIMV

Gimv has acquired a majority stake in the Groupe Tibbloc, alongside its management team and founders. The aim of this transaction is to support the Group’s growth in France in all temporary energy solutions, and to accelerate its international development.

Paris (FR) & Antwerp (BE), December, 4th, 2024, 07:30 AM – Founded in 2007 near Nantes, France, Tibbloc (https://www.tibbloc.fr/) has become the French leader in temporary energy rental solutions (heating, cooling, steam, compressed air and dehumidification). Present in France, Belgium, Austria and Germany, with 11 operating platforms, the Group is characterized by its comprehensive range of services, from project design and specification to logistics and installation. The Group serves a diversified customer base, notably in district heating networks, food processing, industry, pharmaceuticals and the service sector.

In a growing market driven by the increasing use of rental offers, the development of urban energy networks and climate change, Tibbloc is recognized for its technical capabilities, operational excellence and the depth of its product range. Its flexible business model combines multi-specialist sales teams, capable of supporting customers in all aspects of their business by proposing tailor-made solutions, with highly specialized technical teams in charge of project execution throughout France and abroad.

Supported by Ciclad since 2020 and under the impetus of Eric Merilhou and Yann Dauce, respectively CEO and COO of the Group, Tibbloc has become a key player in its market. With sales of over €40 million, driven by solid organic growth, the Group now employs around 120 people. It has also made two strategic acquisitions that have enabled it to broaden its offering and geographical coverage, positioning itself as a consolidation platform in a fragmented European market.

Gimv’s investment, alongside Eric Merilhou, Yann Dauce and the management team, will provide Tibbloc with the financial and professional support it needs to accelerate its development, both in France and internationally, while continuing to invest in expanding its equipment fleet and structuring the Group. Tibbloc plans to strengthen its market position by further expanding its range of services to support its clients in their decarbonization efforts.

This investment will place Tibbloc among the top 10 participations in Gimv’s current portfolio.

Eric Merilhou, CEO of Tibbloc, and Yann Dauce, COO, declare: “We are delighted by the arrival of Gimv as shareholder to pursue our ambitious development strategy, enabling us to strengthen our position and continue innovating to offer ever more efficient and sustainable temporary energy solutions. Gimv has demonstrated a keen understanding of our challenges and how to meet them, and their know-how in terms of structuring will help us to support our growth in France and abroad.”

Nicolas de Saint Laon, Head of Gimv France, and François-Xavier Rico, Principal Sustainable Cities, add: “We are delighted to be able to support Eric Merilhou, Yann Dauce and their team in this next chapter for Tibbloc. The management team has achieved a remarkable track record and has succeeded in creating a key player in its market, capable of addressing the critical needs of its customers, with a DNA combining a sense of service, agility and proximity. We are therefore particularly proud to have convinced Eric, Yann and their team of our capability to support them in this ambitious development project, which is perfectly aligned with the investment strategy of our Sustainable Cities sector platform.”

Eric Bruguière, Partner, and Edouard de Kermadec, Investment Director at Ciclad, declare: “With founders Gilles Bertrand and Mickaël Hamon, whom we met in 2020, we recruited Éric, then Yann, while opening up the capital to all the company’s employees. After a smooth managerial transition, the company continued to expand, diversifying its activities, particularly in compressed air and dehumidification, while consolidating its positions in France and beyond, boosted by a particularly strong energy market. We are delighted with this transaction led by Gimv, which succeeded in uniting all shareholders in a highly competitive sale process. We wish Tibbloc, its team and its new partners all the success they deserve. With numerous development opportunities on the horizon, the group is now ideally structured to meet these challenges successfully.”

No further financial details will be disclosed.

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VIVEbiotech Secures Growth Investment from Ampersand Capital Partners to Expand Lentiviral Vector Development and Manufacturing Capabilities

Ampersand

San Sebastian, Gipuzkoa, Spain, December 4th 2024 /PRNewswire/ — VIVEbiotech, a leading lentiviral vector Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), today announced a growth equity investment from Ampersand Capital Partners (“Ampersand”), a private equity firm specializing in the life sciences and healthcare sectors. The partnership with Ampersand will enable the expansion of VIVEbiotech’s lentiviral vector manufacturing In San Sebatian, Gipuzkoa, Spain and support the execution of a robust pipeline of customer projects for innovators developing groundbreaking in vivo and ex vivo cell and gene therapies.

VIVEbiotech provides process development, manufacturing and analytical testing for leading biopharmaceutical companies engaged in gene therapy and cell therapy projects. With a specific focus on lentiviral vector production, the Company operates a state-of-the-art, 3,000 sq. m. (32,000 sq. ft.) GMP-compliant facility in San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain. VIVEbiotech has a proprietary platform for custom lentiviral vector development and manufacturing, and their highly educated and skilled team of over 140 employees, with more than 85% holding advanced degrees, ensures top-tier expertise and compliance with international standards.

Jon Alberdi, CEO of VIVEbiotech, states: “We are thrilled to welcome Ampersand as a key partner to accelerate VIVEbiotech’s ambitious growth plan while strengthening our flexible, plug-and-play platform. This partnership will play an important role in continuing to exceed our customers’ high expectations. The combination of Ampersand’s industry expertise and VIVE’s robust team will position VIVE as a market leader by expanding our capacity and unique capabilities.”

As part of the transaction, industry veteran Dr. Stefan Beyer has been named Chairman of VIVEBiotech. Dr. Beyer added, “Given the ongoing rapid growth of the cell and gene therapy sector, I am excited to join the VIVEbiotech team. With its state-of-the-art GMP facility, the entire VIVEbiotech team has demonstrated robust capabilities that resonate with the market. Clients are drawn to the team’s scientific expertise, and this strategic investment by Ampersand will enable continued development and growth for VIVEbiotech.” Dr. Beyer has spent his entire career in the pharmaceutical outsourcing industry as an entrepreneur and advisor, previously serving as President, Managing Director, and CEO of Vibalogics, a former Ampersand portfolio company and industry leader of process development, manufacturing, and fill & finish services for biopharmaceutical companies developing oncolytic viral therapies, gene therapies, and vaccines.

Marina Pellon-Consunji, Partner at Ampersand, comments, “We are thrilled to support VIVEbiotech in their mission to advance lentiviral vector development. The team’s scientific expertise and innovative approach make them a key player in the rapidly growing cell and gene therapy industry. Through this investment, we look forward to partnering with Jon and his team to solidify VIVE as a global leader in lentiviral vector for in vivo and ex vivo cell and gene therapy.”

About VIVEbiotech

VIVEbiotech is a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) specializing in lentiviral vectors for gene and cell therapy. Founded in 2015, VIVEbiotech operates under EMA and FDA standards, serving over 40 biotech companies globally. The company focuses on scalable, high-yield manufacturing processes and cutting-edge technologies. With expertise in both ex vivo and in vivo applications, VIVEbiotech supports the development and commercialization of therapies for cancers and rare diseases. For more information about VIVEbiotech, please visit vivebiotech.com.

About Ampersand Capital Partners

Ampersand Capital Partners, founded in 1988, is a middle-market private equity firm with $3 billion of assets under management, dedicated to growth-oriented investments in the healthcare sector. With offices in Boston, MA, and Amsterdam, Netherlands, Ampersand leverages a unique blend of private equity and operating experience to build value and drive long-term performance alongside its portfolio company management teams. Ampersand has helped build numerous market-leading companies across each of the firm’s core healthcare sectors. For additional information, visit AmpersandCapital.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

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Blanchon Group, a leading European player in protective and decoration coatings for the home improvement market, accelerates its international growth with the acquisition of Dr Schutz in Germany

IK Partners

Lyon, December 3rd, 2024. Blanchon Group (“Blanchon” or “the Group”) announces the acquisition of Dr Schutz (known under Dr Schutz and Eukula brands), a German family-owned business specialising in the renovation, protection and maintenance of floors, including vinyl, epoxy and wooden floors for commercial and sport segments. For more than 70 years, Dr Schutz has been developing, manufacturing and selling speciality polyurethane systems for heavy renovation of vinyl and epoxy floors as well as flooring care products, dedicated to professional customers.

Supported by IK Partners and Abenex, this acquisition is part of Blanchon Group’s strategy to accelerate international growth and become a European leader in protection, renovation, maintenance and decoration of wood and vinyl flooring and surfaces. With a commercial presence in more than 30 countries and exclusive partners in key regions, Dr Schutz operates from five main sites in Germany, Poland, Switzerland, the UK and USA. These will be added to the well-established Blanchon subsidiaries to broaden the Group’s geographical presence.

This acquisition leverages the complementary combination of the Blanchon and Dr Schutz product lines, their strong brand awareness and their respective client portfolios. It positions Blanchon Group to become the leading floor renovation specialist for professional customers, solidifying its position in the DACH region, the Netherlands and Nordics, amongst others.

The 90 highly skilled employees of Dr Schutz are now joining Blanchon Group’s experienced and multi-functional teams. Dr Karl-Michael Schutz and his top Management remain fully involved in the company and he will take over the overall responsibility for Germany and the vinyl floor renovation business segment.

Guillaume Clément, President and CEO of the Blanchon Group, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Dr Schutz into the Blanchon family. This acquisition is a significant milestone in the Group’s almost 200-year history. Through this acquisition, Germany, the largest flooring market in Europe, will become one of our most important markets, alongside France. A strong team of professionals led by Dr Karl-Michael Schutz are joining us and will ensure our company’s continued development for years to come. The acquisition of Dr Schutz will enable us to provide our customers with a full product range in the flooring segment, including specialty systems for heavy renovation and a full range of wood and vinyl care products. Step by step, we are building a truly international company dedicated to indoor and outdoor surface care. Dr Schutz is a perfect match”.

Dr Karl-Michael Schutz, co-owner of Dr Schutz stated: “We are very pleased to join Blanchon Group. Our motto ‘We care about floors’ fits perfectly with Blanchon’s ethos and we share the same DNA and values. Benefitting from its strong reputation in Europe, as well as its solid R&D expertise, the Group has an offering that is highly complementary to Dr Schutz’s technical product range and value proposition. Joining forces will ensure strong development, benefitting our employees, customers and partners”.

Contact details:
Blanchon Group: Béatrice Gladel, bgladel@blanchon.com
Dr Schutz: Dr Karl-Michael Schutz, kms@dr-schutz.com

Relevant websites: blanchongroup.com; dr-schutz.com; bigler-lacke.swiss;
rigoverffabriek.nl; ciranova.eu; syntilor.com; ikpartners.com; and abenex.com

About Blanchon

Founded in 1832, Blanchon is a specialist in protective and decorative coatings for wood and vinyl substrates for indoor and outdoor applications. The group services more than 8000 customers globally with its brand ‘Syntilor’ – dedicated to DIY, its brands ‘Blanchon’ and ‘Ciranova’, ‘Rigo’, ‘Carver’ and ‘Bigler’- for professionals, and ‘Blanchon Tech’ and ‘Ciranova Tech’ – for flooring manufacturers. The group is recognized for its high quality and sustainable product offerings, and its local technical expertise to support customers. In 2020, Blanchon Group was the first to launch a completely bio-based wood care product offering for professional and end-consumers. It operates through 9 subsidiaries located in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Switzerland, UK, USA and China and employs ~450 people.

www.blanchongroup.com

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About Dr Schutz

The Dr Schutz company specializes in the flooring care and renovation segment. It provides specialty polyurethane products and services to deeply renovate floors, as well as a full care and maintenance product range for all type of floors under Dr Schutz brand. It has developed a comprehensive wood product range under the brand Eukula for professionals. Created in 1955, the company operates in more than 30 countries through very strong partnerships and 4 main platforms located in Germany, Switzerland, the UK, Poland and the USA. Dr Schutz employs approximately 90 people and its values and culture are driven by product quality, innovation and customer service.

www.dr-schutz.com

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