Category Archives: News

Wirepas raises 14.4 million euros to capitalize the market momentum for Massive IoT

Tesi

Investments in companies – 14.5.2019

Tesi and KPN Ventures join existing investors in supporting Wirepas on its growth trajectory

TAMPERE, Finland, — May 14th, 2019 — ETF Partners, Inventure, KPN Ventures, TESI (Finnish Industry Investment) and Vito Ventures have invested €14.4 million in Wirepas, a Finnish software company that has built a wireless connectivity platform solving the major challenges of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and enabling broad adoption of Massive IoT. The additional funding, including the participation of existing investors, takes the total investment in Wirepas to €22 million.

“I am delighted to have Tesi and KPN Ventures joining as Wirepas investors and board observers. It is now clear that massive IoT networks are at the breakout phase and mesh networking from Wirepas is uniquely enabling that to happen. I am grateful that Tesi and KPN Ventures have joined our existing shareholders and share our vision.” welcomes Andrew Gilbert, Chairman of the board at Wirepas.

Wirepas will focus its investments on further strengthening and increasing the reach of the global Wirepas ecosystem as well as on continuous product development. During the last three years the company has built an ecosystem of semiconductor, module partners, OEMs and System Integrators to serve end users around the globe resulting in millions of Wirepas enabled devices shipped. Today Wirepas Mesh is being used to connect smart meters, lights and other assets in supply chain and logistics to reliably deliver the data needed by enterprises to boost their competitiveness and sustainability.

Recently signed customer agreements with industry leaders such as Prologis, Maersk and Fujitsu will provide the backbone of its future growth, adding to Wirepas’ existing customer base of over 100 companies and offering further proof of the competitive advantage of Wirepas Mesh.
“We are clearly seeing that the Massive IoT market is maturing as evidenced by our customers and partners: no longer is it about testing and piloting. We believe in the power of ecosystems where specialized vendors combine their competencies and passion to serve the customer. Together we are delivering concrete and tangible benefits to enterprises wishing to boost their efficiency and sustainability through the adoption of massive IoT. Our connectivity platform is field proven and meets the needs of a plethora of market needs ranging from asset tracking to smart cities and lighting. Wirepas increases end user return on assets significantly and aims to become the most pervasive connectivity system for massive IoT.”, summarizes Teppo Hemiä, CEO at Wirepas.

Sjoerd Spanjer, investment director of KPN Ventures: “As a leading connectivity provider, KPN acknowledges the growing momentum for IoT solutions with an increasing amount of connected devices throughout the value chain. IoT networks that can facilitate large scale deployments with flexible capabilities are becoming increasingly important for successful roll-out. The Wirepas team has developed unique best-in-class software for this purpose and is already working with leading international partners and customers. Through our investment, we aim to support Wirepas in their global expansion and see opportunities to leverage Wirepas’ technology to enhance and complement KPN’s IoT network technologies: M2M, LoRa, LTE-M and in the future also 5G”.

“We were convinced that Wirepas technology is a key enabler for Industrial IoT adoption especially in use cases where massive, cost efficient scaling is required. A number of global blue-chip customers are currently adopting the Wirepas mesh technology, which alongside economic benefits also drives positive environmental impact and resource efficiency and thereby supports our responsible investment principles. As a European company with global ambitions, Wirepas is also a natural fit with the EFSI programme”, comments Juha Lehtola, Tesi´s Director, Venture Capital.

EU enabling exceptionally significant financing rounds

Tesi’s investment in Wirepas is the first to take advantage of the new financial mechanism between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Tesi, paving the way for large investments in growth companies. Tesi is the EIB’s first partner in the Nordics that channels financing guaranteed under the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) to SMEs and innovative midcap companies as equity investments.

”When we formed this co-investment platform with Tesi, this is the kind of investment we had in mind.” added EIB vice-president Alexander Stubb. “Although already quite competitive, in the Finnish equity investment landscape especially larger equity investment rounds were seen to be lacking investor support. This is a clear example of what Europe, and in particular the EIB, should be doing; to support innovation and improve peoples’ lives by strategic investments. We’re definitely looking forward to seeing more of these investments.”

Wirepas was founded in 2010 as a spinoff from Tampere University, where it was part of a research program to connect an unlimited amount of environmental sensors wirelessly. Since 2014, the company has provided a hardware-independent radio communications protocol based on a de-centralized network topology, using a software licensing model. Wirepas shareholders include founders, Inventure Investment Fund from Finland, Vito Ventures from Germany, ETF Partners from the UK, management shareholders and private investors. The company employs approximately 50 people in 9 countries.

Further information

Teppo Hemiä, CEO – Wirepas, +358 50 561 0198, teppo.hemia(at)wirepas.com

Patrick Sheehan, Managing Partner – ETF Partners, +44 20 7318 0700, patrick(at)etfpartners.capital

Sami Lampinen, CEO – Inventure, +358 40 520 5295, sami(at)inventure.fi

Stijn Wesselink, Press Officer – KPN, +31 6-25074971, stijn.wesselink(at)kpn.com

Juha Lehtola, Director Venture Capital – Tesi, +358 400 647 671, juha.lehtola(at)tesi.fi

Benedikt von Schoeler, Managing Partner – Vito Ventures, +49 173 8669952, bene(at)vito.vc

 

Wirepas Mesh enables wireless IoT networking at massive scale. It is a de-centralized IoT network protocol that can be used to connect, locate and identify lights, sensors, beacons, assets, machines and meters in cities, buildings, industry, logistics and energy – with unprecedented scale, density, flexibility and reliability. It can be used on any radio hardware and on any frequency band. Wirepas has its headquarters in Tampere, Finland and offices in Australia, France, Germany, India, South Korea, Taiwan, the UK and the United States. Things connected – Naturally.
www.wirepas.com

ETF Partners supports talented entrepreneurs and management teams with investment capital and experience. Our funds come from institutional investors, global corporations and family offices. We create value by investing in technology companies that make a difference. We call it ‘sustainability through innovation’. Environmental Technologies Fund and Environmental Technologies Fund 2 L.P. is supported by the European Union through the ‘Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme’ (CIP).
Sustainability through innovation – www.etfpartners.capital

Inventure is a Nordic technology fund backing early-stage entrepreneurs. Having the roots in Finland, the team enjoys domains many don’t feel comfortable with, and makes big bets on deep tech. The strong capital base of €250M allows Inventure to lead investments starting from initial seed-stage all the way through expansion. The team operates from offices in Helsinki and Stockholm.
inventure.fi

KPN Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of KPN, The Netherlands’ leading telecom & ICT company. KPN Ventures aims to build value-creating partnership with innovative technology companies, providing access to capital, industry expertise, technical infrastructure, professional network and channels to customers. It focuses on direct and indirect (fund-in-fund) early-stage investments in the segments: Networking Technology, Cyber Security, Internet of Things, Smart Home, Digital Healthcare, Video/OTT, Cloud and Data/AI. KPN Ventures has its main office in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
www.kpnventures.com

Tesi is a state-owned investment company that invests profitably and responsibly, creating value from day one. Tesi’s investments under management total EUR 1.2 billion and it has altogether more than 700 companies in portfolio, either directly or through funds. Tesi helps Finland to the next level of growth and internationalisation.
www.tesi.fi / www.dtg.tesi.fi / @TesiFII

Vito Ventures is one of Europe’s leading deep-tech investors. The early-phase investor is rooted in the German SME markets and boasts a unique network within European industry. The team has a comprehensive understanding of the deep-reaching technological change as well as the dynamics and requirements for both, established companies as well as start-ups.
www.vito.vc

Categories: News

Tags:

Westjet to be acquired by Onex

Onex

WestJet shareholders to receive $31.00 per share in cash; Acquisition recognizes and continues WestJet’s industry-leading commitment to guest experience and employee culture

CALGARY, Alberta, May 13, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – WestJet Airlines Ltd. (“WestJet”)(TSX: WJA) announced today it has entered into a definitive agreement that provides for its acquisition in an all-cash transaction. Under the terms of the agreement, Onex Corporation (“Onex”)(TSX: ONEX) and its affiliated funds will acquire all outstanding shares of WestJet for $31.00 per share, after which WestJet will operate as a privately-held company. The purchase price represents a 67% premium to Friday’s closing share price and a 63% premium to WestJet’s 20-day volume-weighted average trading price. The transaction value is approximately $5 billion including assumed debt.

“Since our first flight in 1996, WestJet has been singularly focused on providing better options for the Canadian travelling public and this transaction retains that commitment,” said Clive Beddoe, WestJet’s Founder and Chairman. “I am particularly pleased that WestJet will remain headquartered in Calgary and will continue to build on the success that our 14,000 WestJetters have created. Onex’ aerospace experience, history of positive employee relations and long-term orientation makes it an ideal partner for WestJetters, and I am excited about our future.”

“WestJet is one of Canada’s strongest brands and we have tremendous respect for the business that Clive Beddoe and all WestJetters have built over the years. WestJet is renowned internationally for its unparalleled guest experience and employee culture. We’re thrilled to be partnering with WestJetters and continuing this remarkable Canadian success story,” said Tawfiq Popatia, a Managing Director at Onex.

Ed Sims, WestJet’s President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “We are delighted to continue the journey of building an airline based on a growing network, providing competitive airfares and more choice to, from and within Canada, for communities large and small. Integral to this relationship is a commitment to our employees, and our unique ownership-driven culture.”

The investment will be led by Onex Partners, Onex’ private equity platform focused on larger investment opportunities.

Recommendation of the WestJet Board of Directors

Following an approach by Onex in March 2019, the WestJet board of directors formed a special committee of independent directors to provide the Board with its advice and recommendations with respect to the proposal from Onex and the transaction, and to supervise the negotiation of the terms and conditions of the transaction. After an extensive review of the proposed transaction, the special committee provided its unanimous recommendation of the transaction to the WestJet board of directors. The WestJet board of directors, having received and considered the recommendation of the special committee, determined that the transaction is in the best interests of WestJet and unanimously recommends that WestJet shareholders vote in favour of the transaction at the special meeting of shareholders to be held to approve the transaction.

Each of CIBC Capital Markets and BofA Merrill Lynch has provided the WestJet board of directors with an opinion to the effect that, as of May 12, 2019, the consideration to be received by holders of WestJet shares in the transaction was fair, from a financial point of view, to such holders, in each case subject to the respective limitations, qualifications, assumptions and other matters set forth in such opinions. Each of the directors and executive officers of WestJet has entered into a voting support agreement pursuant to which each has committed to vote in favour of the transaction.

Additional Transaction Details

Equity financing will be led by Onex Partners.

The transaction is to be completed by way of an arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta).Completion of the transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including court and shareholder approval and receipt of certain regulatory approvals, including approval under the Canada Transportation Act. The approval under the Canada Transportation Act involves a determination by the Minister of Transport which entails an assessment of the public interest as it relates to national transportation. Assuming the timely receipt of regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close in the latter part of 2019 or early 2020.

WestJet expects to mail an information circular in late June 2019 for a special meeting of its shareholders expected to be held in July 2019 to approve the transaction.

The arrangement agreement for the transaction includes customary provisions relating to non-solicitation, subject to customary “fiduciary out” provisions that entitle WestJet to consider and accept a superior proposal if the purchaser does not match the superior proposal. WestJet has agreed to pay a fee to the purchaser upon the termination of the agreement in certain circumstances. The purchaser has agreed to pay a fee to WestJetif, after all other conditions to the closing of the transaction have been satisfied or waived, the purchaser is not in a position to fund the closing of the transaction.

WestJet is permitted to continue paying its regular quarterly cash dividend consistent with its dividend policy and past practice until closing.Further details regarding the terms of the transaction are set out in the arrangement agreement, which will be publicly filed by WestJet under its profile at www.sedar.com. Additional information regarding the terms of the arrangement agreement and the background of the transaction will be provided in the information circular for the special meeting of shareholders.

Advisors

CIBC Capital Markets is acting as financial advisor to WestJet. BofA Merrill Lynch has provided financial advisory services to the WestJet board of directors. Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP is serving as legal advisor to WestJetand Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP is serving as independent legal advisor to the special committee of WestJet’s board. Goodmans LLP is acting as Canadian legal advisor to Onex and Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP is serving as U.S. legal advisor to Onex. DLA Piper (Canada) LLP is serving as Onex’ aviation regulatory counsel. Barclays is acting as lead financial advisor and lending bank to Onex with additional advisory and financing provided by Morgan Stanley and RBC Capital Markets.

Caution Regarding Forward-looking Information

Certain information set forth in this news release including, without limitation, WestJet’s and Onex’ management’s expectations with respect to: the anticipated benefits of the transaction; the anticipated timing for the special meeting to approve the transaction; the timing and anticipated receipt of required regulatory approvals; and the anticipated timing for closing the transaction, is forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information may in some cases be identified by words such as “will”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “intends” and similar expressions suggesting future events or future performance.

By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond WestJet’s and Onex’ control. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by WestJet, including expectations and assumptions concerning the anticipated benefits of the transaction and the receipt, in a timely manner, of regulatory, shareholder and court approvals in respect of the transaction. Forward-looking information is subject to various risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results or expectations expressed in this news release. The key risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: general global economic, market and business conditions; governmental and regulatory requirements and actions by governmental authorities; relationships with employees, customers, business partners and competitors; and diversion of management time on the transaction. There are also risks that are inherent in the nature of the transaction, including failure to satisfy the conditions to the completion of the transaction and failure to obtain any required regulatory and other approvals (or to do so in a timely manner). The anticipated timeline for completion of the transaction may change for a number of reasons, including the inability to secure necessary regulatory, court or other approvals in the time assumed or the need for additional time to satisfy the conditions to the completion of the transaction. As a result of the foregoing, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this news release concerning the timing of the transaction. A comprehensive discussion of other risks that impact WestJet can also be found in WestJet’s public reports and filings which are available under WestJet’s profile at www.sedar.com.

Readers are cautioned that undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information as actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking information. WestJet does not undertake to update, correct or revise any forward-looking information as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.

About WestJet

Together with WestJet’s regional airline, WestJet Encore, we offer scheduled service to more than 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Europe and to more than 175 destinations in over 20 countries through our airline partnerships. WestJet Vacations offers affordable, flexible vacations to more than 60 destinations and the choice of more than 800 hotels, resorts, condos and villas. Members of the WestJet Rewards program earn WestJet dollars on flights, vacation packages and more. Members use WestJet dollars towards the purchase of flights and vacations packages to any WestJet destination with no blackout periods, and have access to Member Exclusive fares offering deals to WestJet destinations throughout our network and those of our partner airlines.

WestJet is proud to be recognized for three consecutive years as Best Airline in Canada (2017-19) and awarded among travellers’ favourite Mid-Sized Airlines in North America (2019). From 2017-2018, WestJet was also awarded among travellers’ favorite Mid-Sized and Low-Cost Airlines in North America. The airline was also recognized among the Economy Class winners in North America, 2018. All awards are based on authentic reviews from the travelling public on TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site. We are one of very few airlines globally that does not commercially overbook.

WestJet is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol WJA. For more information about everything WestJet, please visit www.westjet.com.

Recent recognition includes: 2019/2018/2017 Best Airline in Canada (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines)2019 Winner Among Mid-Sized Airlines in North America (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines)2018/2017 Winner Among Mid-Sized and Low Cost Airlines – North America (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines)2018 Winner – Economy, North America (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Airlines)2018 Number-One-Ranked Airline Credit Card in Canada (Rewards Canada) 2018 North America’s Best Low-Cost Airline (Skytrax)2018/2017/2016 Canada’s Most Trusted Airline (Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria)Connect with WestJet on Facebook at facebook.com/westjetFollow WestJet on Twitter at twitter.com/westjetFollow WestJet on Instagram at instagram.com/westjetSubscribe to WestJet on YouTube at youtube.com/westjetRead the WestJet blog at blog.westjet.comFor further information: To contact WestJet media relations, please email media@westjet.com.

About Onex

Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Canada, Onex manages and invests capital in its private equity and credit platforms on behalf of investors from around the world. In total, Onex has US$31 billion of assets under management, including US$6.6 billion of shareholder capital. Onex invests through its two private equity platforms, Onex Partners for larger transactions and ONCAP for middle market and smaller transactions, and Onex Credit which manages primarily non-investment grade debt through collateralized loan obligations, private debt and other credit strategies. Onex and its experienced management team are collectively the largest investors across Onex’ platforms. The Onex Partners and ONCAP businesses have assets of US$51 billion, generate annual revenues of US$31 billion and employ approximately 172,000 people worldwide. Onex shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the stock symbol Onex. For more information on Onex, visit its website at www.onex.com. Onex’ security filings can also be accessed at www.sedar.com.

For more information, please contact: WestJetOnexJeff HagenManager, Investor Relationsjeff.hagen@westjet.com1.877.493.7853 Emilie BlouinDirector, Investor Relations1.416.362.7711 Lauren StewartManager, Public Relationslauren.stewart@westjet.com1.888.954.6397 Martin CejLongview Communications and Public Affairsmcej@longviewcomms.ca1.587.319.2828

Categories: News

Tags:

KKR Grows Real Estate Industrial Portfolio with Acquisition of New Industrial Buildings

KKR

New Investments Increase Portfolio to More than Seven Million Square Feet

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–May 13, 2019– KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced the acquisition of two Class A industrial distribution buildings totaling 928,270 square feet. The assets are part of KKR’s Alpha Industrial Properties portfolio, a seven million square foot portfolio across eight high-growth markets in the U.S.

The buildings are located in Inland Empire, California, and in Lakeland, Florida, important national distribution nodes for a variety of tenants serving two of the fastest growing regions in the U.S.: the Southeast and the West. The properties were both recently completed and acquired directly from their respective developers.

“We are excited to add these buildings to our growing industrial portfolio and to be making our second acquisition in both Inland Empire and Central Florida, two very attractive markets for us given strong industrial supply-demand fundamentals,” said Roger Morales, KKR Member and Head of Commercial Real Estate Acquisitions in the Americas.

KKR is making the investment through its Real Estate Partners Americas Fund II.

Since launching a dedicated real estate platform in 2011, KKR has invested or committed over $7 billion in capital across approximately 200 real estate transactions in the U.S., Europe and Asia as of March 31, 2019. The global real estate team consists of over 70 dedicated investment professionals, spanning both the equity and credit businesses.

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that manages multiple alternative asset classes, including private equity, energy, infrastructure, real estate and credit, with strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns for its fund investors by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and driving growth and value creation with KKR portfolio companies. KKR invests its own capital alongside the capital it manages for fund investors and provides financing solutions and investment opportunities through its capital markets business. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE:KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com and on Twitter @KKR_Co.

Source: KKR & Co. Inc.

Kristi Huller or Cara Major
212-750-8300
media@kkr.com

Categories: News

Tags:

Oakley Capital acquires leading maritime e-learning businesses Videotel and Seagull

Oakley

Oakley Capital (“Oakley”) is pleased to announce that it has partnered with the management teams of SG MidCo AS (“Seagull”), and Videotel Marine Asia Limited and Super Dragon Limited (collectively “Videotel”), to acquire majority stakes in the businesses from their current shareholders, Herkules Private Equity Fund IV, and KVH Industries, respectively.

Over the past 40 years, Videotel and Seagull have established themselves as the best-in-class providers of e-learning to the maritime sector globally. Every year they each provide over 10,000 ships and installations with comprehensive and up-to-date compliance, risk and safety training that ensures adherence to International Maritime Organisation requirements. In 2018, the two companies collectively generated $50 million of revenue.

The digital transformation taking place in the shipping industry, as well as the increasingly complex regulatory framework, offers a significant opportunity for e-Learning providers. The management teams of Seagull and Videotel believe that this opportunity can be grasped most effectively by working together as a combined group. With both parties able to collaborate and share knowledge and resources, the two businesses will be able to provide their respective customers with a greater level of product and services.

Apart from an enhanced investment plan, there will be no immediate operational changes in either company except that Oscar Johansen, Chairman and Founder of Seagull, will take up the role of President of the combined group. Roger Ringstad and Raal Harris will continue to lead Seagull and Videotel, respectively.

This transaction continues Oakley’s successful track record of investing in the maritime and education sectors. Oakley previously invested in Headland Media, a provider of media and entertainment services to the offshore and shipping sectors, while its current investments include North Sails, the largest sail maker in the world; Inspired, one of the leading global premium schools groups; Career Partner Group, the fast-growing private university in Germany; Schülerhilfe, Europe’s largest after-school tutoring business; and AMOS, one of the leading international business schools in France.

Peter Dubens, Managing Partner of Oakley Capital commented:

“We are delighted to be partnering with the management teams of Seagull and Videotel, two companies we have admired for many years. Both teams are exactly the type of highly-ambitious professionals we continually seek to back. We look forward to supporting them in their plans to invest in new content and technology solutions based on the wealth of internal expertise which can now be shared across the group.”

As the shipping industry continues to make advancements in digitalisation, we see significant opportunities to further enhance the breadth and depth of products and services we offer our clients. In Videotel and Oakley we believe that we have the perfect partners to support us on that journey.
Roger Ringstad
Managing Director of Seagull
Oakley Capital / Latest News / Oakley Capital acquires leading maritime e-learning businesses Videotel and Seagull

Categories: News

Tags:

HPEF IV has entered into an agreement to sell Seagull

Herkules

HPEF IV has entered into an agreement to sell Seagull to a fund managed by Oakley Capital. The agreement was signed on 13 May 2019 and the transaction is expected to close in July 2019.
Seagull is the leading provider of competence & training management solutions for the maritime industry. The company was established in 1996 and is based in Horten, Norway.

HPEF IV invested in Seagull in June 2015. During HPEF IV’s ownership period, Seagull has experienced challenging end-markets with charter rates across its key customer segments at trough levels. Despite this, the company has achieved organic revenue growth and strong profitability improvement.

As part of the value creation plan, two add-ons were completed. The most recent acquisition, Tero Marine, closed in May 2019.

Due to strong cash generation, the company also managed to return substantial capital to its shareholders during the ownership period.

Categories: News

Tags:

Novacap-backed GTI expands into U.S. with Jetco acquisition

Novacap

Montreal, May 13, 2019 – Novacap, one of Canada’s leading private equity firms, is proud to announce that its portfolio company GTI Transport Solutions Inc. (“GTI”), a leading provider of open-deck, specialized and over-dimensional freight services has completed the acquisition of Jetco, a Houston-based transporter offering flatbed, heavy-haul, intermodal, logistics, and specialized loads in the Texas region and across the United States. This acquisition allows GTI to establish a strong operational platform in the United States, which will provide GTI with the ability to further strengthen and widen its offering to its customers throughout North America.

 

Photo courtesy of GTI Group/Dominic Dulude

The transaction with Jetco follows the acquisition of Precision Specialized Division, a specialized carrier based in Ontario, in February 2019. Through these acquisitions and the brokerage network GTI is currently deploying in the US via GTI USA, GTI is establishing an integrated group focused on specialized transport across North America. With now seven locations in the United States and three in Canada, GTI provides specialized asset-based and non-asset transport solutions to the most demanding clients.

“The team at Jetco is renowned as a market leader in their quality of service and in always prioritizing safety in their transport” says Richard Lafrenière, CEO of GTI. “The strategic strong local presence that Jetco has in Texas will increase GTI’s position in the region and establish a performing North-South corridor with its Canadian operations.”

“This acquisition will also increase GTI’s scale and will deepen our geographic reach,” adds Frédérick Perrault, Senior Partner of Novacap.“ Jetco will complement GTI’s US division with its strong asset base and will serve as our platform for future acquisitions in the US.”

Brian Fielkow, CEO of Jetco, will continue in his current capacity as CEO. Mr. Fielkow adds, “Jetco is glad to join forces with a leader in specialized transport such as GTI and we are looking forward to start working together to bring the company to the next level.”

About GTI

GTI Transport Solutions (“GTI”) specializes in open-deck, heavy haul and over dimensional transportation services while also offering specialty storage, logistics and freight forwarding services. GTI has fully equipped transportation terminals in Quebec and Ontario and 300,000 sq.ft. of specialized warehousing. For further information, visit www.thegtigroup.com

About Jetco

Established in 1976 with one truck, Jetco has become one of the Gulf Coast’s top diversified carriers, serving small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. We currently operate a fleet of more than 100 trucks and 250+ trailers, and because of our diverse fleet, are able to meet all of your LTL and semi-tractor transportation needs including: shipping containers by rail and sea, flatbeds and dry vans. For further information, visit www.jetcodelivery.com/about-us

About Novacap

Founded in 1981, Novacap is a leading Canadian private equity firm with $2.8 billion of assets under management. Novacap’s unique investment approach, based on deep operational expertise and an active partnership with entrepreneurs, has helped accelerate growth and create long-term value for its numerous investee companies. With an experienced management team and substantial financial resources, Novacap is well positioned to continue building world-class companies. For more information, please visit www.novacap.ca.

Media contact:

Valérie Gonzalo
AGO Communications
514.626.6976
valerie@agocom.ca

Categories: News

Tags:

BC Partners sells majority stake in Acuris to ION Investment Group

NEW YORK – May 13, 2019 – Funds advised by BC Partners (“BC Partners”) announced the sale of a majority stake in Acuris, a global provider of proprietary financial intelligence, data and analytics, to ION Investment Group (“ION”). ION will acquire a controlling stake in the company from BC Partners and GIC, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund. BC Partners and Acuris management are reinvesting and will retain minority ownership.

With nearly 1,500 employees in 66 different locations worldwide, Acuris is a leading global financial information provider, with a large and diversified base of investor, advisory and corporate clients. It provides proprietary insights and analytics across six key financial areas: fixed income, transactions, equities, compliance, infrastructure and research. Acuris’ differentiated content and products, including Mergermarket, Debtwire and several others, are deeply embedded in the workflow of over 115,000 daily users and nearly 5,000 subscribing firms.

Nikos Stathopoulos, Partner at BC Partners and Chairman of Acuris, said, “When we invested in Acuris in 2014, we saw an opportunity to accelerate its growth and to build a strong franchise, in partnership with Hamilton and the management team. We invested significantly in Acuris’ technology platform, expanded geographically, launched new products, content and data sets and executed nine accretive acquisitions, which have allowed us to create new product divisions. We’re proud of the way Acuris has developed over the last five years into a leader in global financial intelligence, data and analytics, and see significant potential for further value creation. ION’s complementary capabilities, technologies and customers make it an ideal partner to support the next stage of Acuris’ growth.”

Hamilton Matthews, CEO of Acuris, said, “We are excited to partner with ION and will benefit from the strength of their platforms and their network of relationships with financial institutions and corporations. On behalf of my firm and my team, I extend our gratitude and appreciation to Nikos and BC Partners for their continued support and guidance and we look forward to partnering with ION and BC Partners as we embark on our next phase of growth.”

Andrea Pignataro, ION’s CEO and Founder said “Acuris’ leading position in financial intelligence, data and analytics is highly complementary to ION’s business. Together, ION and Acuris will continue to deliver innovative, differentiated intelligence and solutions to financial institutions and corporations. We are looking forward to partnering with BC Partners to support the company’s growth and development.”

UBS Investment Bank acted as exclusive financial advisor to ION and provided committed financing in support of the transaction. J.P. Morgan and Goldman Sachs acted as financial advisors to Acuris on the transaction.

About BC Partners
BC Partners is a leading international investment firm with over €25 billion of committed capital in private equity, private credit and real estate. Established in 1986, BC Partners has played an active role in developing the European buy-out market for three decades. Today, BC Partners executives operate across markets as an integrated team through the firm’s offices in North America and Europe. Since inception, BC Partners Private Equity has completed 108 private equity investments in companies with a total enterprise value of €135 billion and is currently investing its tenth private equity fund. For more information, please visit www.bcpartners.com.

About Acuris
Founded in 2000, Acuris provides proprietary, actionable intelligence, data and analytics to the world’s principal advisory firms, investment banks, law firms, hedge funds, private equity firms and corporates. Acuris owns a portfolio of mission-critical products spanning six key financial areas including fixed income, transactions, equities, compliance, infrastructure and research. Acuris is a trusted partner for its clients with products deeply embedded in subscriber workflows, enabling users to spot new business opportunities, increase their revenues and keep several steps ahead of the competition. For more information, visit www.acuris.com.

About ION Investment Group
ION Investment Group is a holding company that, through its investments, provides data, analytics and mission-critical trading and workflow solutions to financial institutions, central banks, governments and corporates. For more information, visit www.iongroup.com.

Contacts

For BC Partners:
Prosek Partners
pro-bcpartners@prosek.com
+44 20 8323 0475 / +1 646 818 9287

Categories: News

Tags:

Compart Systems to Acquire Alpha Precision & Engineering

Platinum

Platinum Equity Portfolio Company to Expand Footprint with Add-On of Malaysian Precision Manufacturing Business

LOS ANGELES (April 10, 2019) – Compart Systems, a portfolio company of Platinum Equity, announced today it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Alpha Precision Turning & Engineering. Financial terms were not disclosed. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions, and is expected to during Q2 2019.

Compart is a supplier of high-precision, machined metal components including valves, fittings, sensors, and related components, for semiconductor, medical equipment and other industries.  Founded in 1985, Alpha is a precision machining company with three manufacturing plants in Kulim, Malaysia.

“Alpha will help diversify Compart’s revenue with increased exposure to new end markets, add scale, and expand the company’s footprint into Malaysia,” said Mr. Kotzubei. “Both companies share a commitment to the highest possible quality standards and will each benefit from working together.”

Jacob Kotzubei, the partner in Platinum Equity’s Los Angeles headquarters who oversees the firm’s Singapore-based team, said Compart and Alpha are highly complementary businesses.

“Alpha will help diversify Compart’s revenue with increased exposure to new end markets, add scale, and expand the company’s footprint into Malaysia,” said Mr. Kotzubei. “Both companies share a commitment to the highest possible quality standards and will each benefit from working together.”

Alpha Founder Lim Tham Cheng, who will remain a minority investor in the business, said the prospective combination with Compart is the right move for the company.

“Joining forces with Compart will be good for our customers and support the long-term growth of our business,” said Mr. Lim.  “Compart will be a strong and committed partner and will help create new opportunities, particularly in aerospace and other end-markets. Our customers will benefit from our expanded capabilities and access to additional technology solutions.”

Soo Jin Goh, Principal at Platinum Equity and head of the firm’s Singapore-based investment team, said the add-on acquisition will open up new opportunities for Compart and its customers.

“Compart will be better positioned to meet the needs of diverse, multi-national corporations that need high-quality manufacturing partners in Asia,” said Mr. Goh.  “We will continue looking for new opportunities to expand the company’s product offering and geographic reach, both organically and through additional acquisitions.”

About Platinum Equity
Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with approximately $13 billion of assets under management and a portfolio of approximately 40 operating companies that serve customers around the world. The firm is currently investing from Platinum Equity Capital Partners IV, a $6.5 billion global buyout fund, and Platinum Equity Small Cap Fund, a $1.5 billion buyout fund focused on investment opportunities in the lower middle market. Platinum Equity specializes in mergers, acquisitions and operations – a trademarked strategy it calls M&A&O® – acquiring and operating companies in a broad range of business markets, including manufacturing, distribution, transportation and logistics, equipment rental, metals services, media and entertainment, technology, telecommunications and other industries. Over the past 23 years Platinum Equity has completed more than 250 acquisitions.

Investor Relations
and Media Contacts:

Mark Barnhill
Partner
+1 310.228.9514 E-mail Mark

Dan Whelan
Principal
+1 310.282.9202 E-mail Dan

Categories: News

SnapAV and Control4 Announce Merger to Transform the Rapidly Growing Smart Home Solutions Industry

Hellman & Friedman

CHARLOTTE, N.C. & SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH (BUSINESS WIRE)

Two industry leaders combine to empower professional integrators with better service and better solutions to more effectively serve the growing demand for connected homes and businesses

Control4 shareholders to receive $23.91 per share in cash

Acquisition expected to close in second half of 2019

SnapAV, a leading manufacturer and primary source of A/V, surveillance, networking and remote management products for professional integrators, and Control4 Corporation (NASDAQ: CTRL) (“Control4”), a leading global provider of smart home solutions, today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement (the “Agreement”) whereby SnapAV will acquire Control4 in an all-cash transaction for $23.91 per share in cash, representing an aggregate value of approximately $680 million.

“The combination of Control4 and SnapAV is transformative for the smart home industry”

This highly complementary combination will leverage the increased resources of the two companies to provide integrators with a true one-stop shop, offering a complete product portfolio of custom smart-home, control and automation solutions. Together, SnapAV and Control4 will drive increased innovation, simplified integration and compelling solutions that meet the demands of today’s expanding smart home industry. With leading technology solutions, a broad geographic footprint and exceptional service organizations, the combined company is poised to provide integrators with better opportunities to serve customers in the connected home and business markets.

Control4’s Board of Directors has unanimously approved and recommended that stockholders vote in favor of the transaction. Under the terms of the Agreement, SnapAV will acquire all the outstanding common stock of Control4 for $23.91 per share in cash. The purchase price represents a premium of approximately 40% over Control4’s closing price on May 8, 2019, the last trading day prior to execution of the Agreement, and a premium of approximately 38% over Control4’s 30-trading day weighted average share price ended on May 8, 2019. Private equity investment firm Hellman & Friedman—SnapAV’s majority shareholder since 2017—will invest additional equity as part of the transaction and be the majority shareholder of the combined company.

As award-winning industry leaders renowned for quality, service and continuous innovation, SnapAV and Control4 share a deep understanding of and commitment to the custom installation industry and are dedicated to making professional integrators more successful. By merging, SnapAV and Control4 will combine the talent of their collective 1,200+ employees, market-leading solutions, exceptional interoperability and channel platform, dealer-first programs, global distribution and financial resources to deliver value in ways no one else can—enabling integrators to serve their customers better and grow their businesses.

“We have pursued the mission of making our integrators’ lives easier since SnapAV was founded,” said John Heyman, chief executive officer of SnapAV. “Dealers will be able to buy leading solutions, access the best service technicians in the industry and experience simpler installation through purchasing, support and seamless product integration.

“Over the past several years, we have accomplished a number of goals we felt were critical to the success of integrators and the continued growth of SnapAV—including offering local delivery and pick-up through the acquisition of distribution sites around the country and expanding the suite of products available to support integrators. Merging with Control4 and its outstanding team will help us execute on our third critical goal: delivering the industry’s leading automation platform that integrates with the numerous technologies and products required to create customized smart home experiences homeowners desire. Control4 offers a leading automation platform, along with key smart home solutions in the audio, video, lighting, security and networking categories. We are especially excited by the fact that both of our companies have similarly strong “customer first” corporate cultures centered on quality, service and innovation, and we look forward to creating new and exciting opportunities for the teams at both Control4 and SnapAV. In sum, the two companies will be better together, with better service, better solutions and better opportunities for integrators and employees.”

“We believe today’s announced transaction delivers compelling and immediate value to Control4 shareholders in the form of a significant share price premium, and we are excited to have the opportunity to join with the SnapAV team,” said Martin Plaehn, chairman and chief executive officer of Control4. “Together with SnapAV, we will be able to invest even more in innovation, bring together and build upon the very best of our combined capabilities, and do so with improved reliability, responsiveness, security, and privacy for consumers. Today’s announcement will enable us to better serve the expanding smart home market, making the lives of integrators easier and their businesses more effective and efficient.”

Together the combined company will bring a deep understanding of the industry and an unmatched passion for providing best-in-class solutions and service with one objective: create better experiences for consumers and the integrators who serve them. Product integration, remote management, expert service technicians, product simplification, training and timely logistical capabilities will ensure every install is easier, more reliable and delivers fantastic experiences to consumers where they live and work.

“The combination of Control4 and SnapAV is transformative for the smart home industry,” said Erik Ragatz, Partner at Hellman & Friedman and chairman of the Board of Directors of SnapAV. “The increased resources of the combined company will enable it to invest more to drive innovation and deliver best-in-class features, functionality and products. This combination will also allow us to support integrators more effectively than ever before in pursuit of our joint goal of bringing the promise of the connected home to life.”

More than 1,200 employees of the combined company will be led by SnapAV CEO John Heyman and an executive team made up of leaders from both SnapAV and Control4. Control4 CEO Martin Plaehn will join the Board of Directors of the combined company, helping to ensure a smooth integration of the businesses. The merger reflects the value created by bringing together two industry-leading teams of employees who, united, can better serve the needs of the growing smart home segment. The company will share joint headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Salt Lake City, Utah, with offices and local facilities around the globe.

Transaction Details
As part of the Agreement, Control4’s Board of Directors, with the assistance of its advisors, will conduct a 30-day “go-shop” process following the date of the execution of the definitive agreement, during which it will actively initiate, solicit, encourage and evaluate alternative acquisition proposals, and potentially enter into negotiations with any parties that offer an alternative acquisition proposal. Control4 will have the right to terminate the merger agreement to accept a superior proposal, subject to the terms and conditions of the merger agreement. There can be no assurance that this “go-shop” will result in a superior proposal, and Control4 does not intend to disclose developments with respect to the solicitation process unless and until its Board of Directors makes a determination requiring further disclosure.

Subject to the go-shop, a special meeting of Control4’s shareholders will be held as soon as practicable following the filing of the definitive proxy statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and subsequent mailing to shareholders.

The transaction, which is expected to be completed in the second half of 2019, is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals and approval by Control4 shareholders.

Advisors
In connection with the transaction, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is serving as legal advisor to SnapAV. Raymond James & Associates, Inc. is serving as financial advisor to Control4 and Goodwin Procter LLP is serving as legal advisor.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including but not limited to, statements regarding Control4’s business and financial outlook and the structure, timing and completion of the proposed transaction. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date they were first issued, and were based on the then-current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections, as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond Control4’s control. Control4’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: (i) risks associated with Control4’s ability to obtain the stockholder approval required to consummate the proposed merger transaction and the timing of the closing of the proposed merger transaction, including the risks that a condition to closing would not be satisfied within the expected timeframe or at all or that the closing of the proposed merger transaction will not occur; (ii) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the parties and others related to the merger agreement; (iii) unanticipated difficulties or expenditures relating to the proposed merger transaction, the response of business partners and competitors to the announcement of the proposed merger transaction, and/or potential difficulties in employee retention as a result of the announcement and pendency of the proposed merger transaction; and (iv) those risks detailed in Control4’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, and subsequent filings with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction, as well as other reports and documents that may be filed by Control4 from time to time with the SEC. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The forward-looking statements included in this press release represent Control4’s views as of the date of this press release. Control4 anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause its views to change. Control4 has no intention and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Control4’s views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.

Additional Information and Where to Find It
This press release relates to the proposed merger transaction involving Control4 and may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed merger transaction involving Control4. In connection with the proposed merger transaction, Control4 will file relevant materials with the SEC, including a proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”). This press release is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement or for any other document that Control4 may file with the SEC and or send to Control4’s stockholders in connection with the proposed merger transaction. BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING DECISION, INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF CONTROL4 ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT CONTROL4, THE PROPOSED MERGER TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the Proxy Statement and other documents filed by Control4 with the SEC through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by Control4 with the SEC will also be available free of charge on Control4’s website at www.Control4.com, or by contacting Control4’s Investor Relations contact at the Blueshirt Group, LLC at (415) 217-2632. Control4 and its directors and certain of its executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies from Control4’s stockholders with respect to the proposed merger transaction under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of Control4 is set forth in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, which was filed with the SEC on February 11, 2019, its proxy statement for its 2019 annual meeting of stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on March 20, 2019 and in subsequent documents filed with the SEC. Additional information regarding the persons who may be deemed participants in the proxy solicitations and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will also be included in the Proxy Statement and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC when they become available. You may obtain free copies of this document as described above.

About SnapAV
Established in 2005 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, SnapAV is a manufacturer and exclusive source of more than 2,700 installation-friendly audio, video, networking, power and surveillance products for residential and commercial A/V integrators. SnapAV empowers integrators to run more efficient businesses by providing high quality products at attractive prices, supported by best-in-class online ordering and award-winning customer service. Additional information about SnapAV and its product brands can be found at www.SnapAV.com.

About Control4
Control4 [NASDAQ: CTRL] is a leading global provider of automation and networking systems for homes and businesses, offering personalized control of lighting, music, video, comfort, security, communications, and more into a unified smart home system that enhances the daily lives of its consumers. Control4 unlocks the potential of connected devices, making networks more robust, entertainment systems easier to use, homes more comfortable and energy efficient, and provides families more peace of mind. Today, every home and business needs automation horsepower and a high-performance network to manage the increasing number of connected devices. The Control4 platform interoperates with more than 13,000 third-party consumer electronics products, ensuring an ever-expanding ecosystem of devices will work together. Control4 is now available in over 100 countries. Leveraging a professional channel that includes over 5,900 custom integrators, retailers, and distributors authorized to sell Control4 products, Pakedge networking solutions and Triad speakers, Control4 is delivering intelligent solutions for consumers, major consumer electronics companies, hotels, and businesses around the world.

About Hellman & Friedman
Hellman & Friedman is a leading private equity investment firm with offices in San Francisco, New York, and London. Since its founding in 1984, Hellman & Friedman has raised over $50 billion of committed capital. The firm focuses on investing in outstanding business franchises and serving as a value-added partner to management in select industries including software, financial services, business & information services, healthcare, internet & media, retail & consumer, and industrials & energy. For more information, please visit www.hf.com.

Contacts
Dana Gorman
Abernathy MacGregor
dtg@abmac.com
(212) 371-5999

James Bourne
Abernathy MacGregor
jab@abmac.com
(213) 360-6550

William Braun
Abernathy MacGregor
whb@abmac.com
(212) 371-5999

Categories: News

Tags:

Funds advised by Apax Partners to acquire Baltic Classifieds Group

Apax

9 May 2019: Funds advised by Apax Partners (the “Apax Funds”) today announced a definitive agreement to acquire Baltic Classifieds Group (“BCG”), a portfolio of leading online classified advertising platforms in the Baltics. The stake will be acquired from Media Investments & Holding OÜ, a Baltic-based media business. The transaction is expected to close by July 2019, subject to regulatory approvals. Financial terms were not disclosed.

BCG operates Autoplius.lt, Aruodas.lt, Skelbiu.lt, CVBankas.lt, KV.ee, City24.ee, City24.lv, Osta.ee and Soov.ee, leading online classifieds platforms for automotive, real estate, jobs, and general merchandise. BCG’s portals are some of the most visited websites in their respective countries, generating more than 50m monthly visits in aggregate.

The Apax Funds have a long and successful track record investing in digital marketplace businesses. The investment in Baltic Classifieds Group will be the ninth in this space and the first in the Baltic region. Previous investments include Auto Trader in the UK, Idealista in Spain, SoYoung and SouFun in China and Trade Me in New Zealand.

Tom Hall, Partner at Apax Partners, said: “Over more than a decade, Justinas, the CEO, Simonas, the COO, and their long-standing team have built a collection of market-leading businesses with strong brands. The digital marketplaces they operate promote trust, fairness and efficiency. We are excited to introduce the BCG team to our wide network of classifieds businesses and executives around the world. We look forward to investing in BCG further, with the support of our Operational Excellence Practice, to enhance the great value these marketplaces provide for advertisers and consumers.

“We are also very pleased for the Apax Funds to invest in the Baltics for the first time. We are confident in the growth prospects of the region and have been very impressed with its business friendliness, pragmatism and entrepreneurial culture.”

Justinas Simkus, Chief Executive Officer of BCG, said: “We are proud to have developed a market-leading position. This is testament to our team and to the support we have had from our exiting shareholder. We look forward to benefitting from the considerable experience the Apax team has in digital marketplaces.”

About Baltic Classifieds Group

Baltic Classifieds Group is a portfolio of leading online classified advertising platforms in the Baltics, specialising in five key segments: automotive, real estate, jobs, generalist and ecommerce. The company operates in Lithuania, its largest market, through Diginet LTU. For more information see: www.diginet.lt

About Apax Partners

Apax Partners is a leading global private equity advisory firm. Over its more than 40-year history, Apax Partners has raised and advised funds with aggregate commitments of c.$50 billion. The Apax Funds invest in companies across four global sectors of Tech & Telco, Services, Healthcare and Consumer. These funds provide long-term equity financing to build and strengthen world-class companies. For more information see: www.apax.com.

Media Contacts:

For Baltic Classifieds Group

Justinas Simkus  |  info@diginet.lt

For Apax Partners

Global Media: Andrew Kenny, Apax | +44 20 7 872 6371 | andrew.kenny@apax.com

USA Media: Todd Fogarty, Kekst | +1 212-521 4854 | todd.fogarty@kekst.com

UK Media: Matthew Goodman / James Madsen, Greenbrook | +44 20 7952 2000 | apax@greenbrookpr.com

Notes to Editors:

London-headquartered Apax Partners (www.apax.com), and Paris-headquartered Apax Partners (www.apax.fr) had a shared history but are separate, independent private equity firms.

Categories: News