IDHL acquires The MTM Agency to scale integrated offer

Bridgepoint

Leading digital agency IDHL today announces the acquisition of marketing and communications specialists The MTM Agency.

From SEO pioneers to integrated digital marketing leaders, IDHL has evolved over 25 years to become one of the UK’s most comprehensive growth partners for ambitious businesses. From a foundation of search engine optimisation powered by proprietary technology IDHL has since expanded both organically and through strategic acquisitions across the digital landscape.

2024 marked a transformative milestone as the group united eight of their nine agencies under a collective vision to build the UK’s leading growth-centric digital services agency to deliver value for clients and partners.

The acquisition of The MTM Agency accelerates IDHL’s ability to deliver strategic advice across the entire communications landscape by bolstering its industry leading capabilities in performance, web, eCommerce and data intelligence as well as deep technical expertise. Aligned to IDHL’s mission to accelerate growth for ambitious businesses and brands in the digital economy, the strategic addition brings sophisticated complementary capabilities in creative, strategy and insight, as well as influencer marketing and PR.

The acquisition sees IDHL welcome over 80 new colleagues in Southampton, bringing fresh perspectives to solving clients’ challenges and expanding the agency’s strong UK footprint which includes teams in London, Leeds and Manchester.

The MTM Agency’s creative, strategic client-centric approach and vast experience in delivering for B2B brands will enhance IDHL’s offer to its existing national roster of clients whilst creating fresh opportunities to forge new client relationships.

The transaction is supported by IDHL’s existing investment partner Bridgepoint, which partnered with the company in 2021 via Bridgepoint Development Capital, a lower middle-market fund focused on supporting fast-growing businesses across Europe.

Speaking about the acquisition, Ben Wood, IDHL CEO, said:

“At IDHL, we are laser-focussed on providing world-class integrated digital solutions to drive growth for our clients’ businesses.

Driven by an entrepreneurial mindset, IDHL has evolved by responding to client demand – scaling with new services and solutions to meet their changing needs. This continues to be delivered through organic growth and strategic acquisitions to strengthen our integrated offering.

The acquisition of The MTM Agency brings our expert teams and leading capabilities together to create a powerful full-service offer that enables us to deepen our understanding of clients’ businesses and their consumers to deliver even more valuable outcomes.”

Gordon Hawes, Co-owner of The MTM Agency, said:

“For my co-owner Paul Jones and I, The MTM Agency becoming part of the IDHL family is the culmination of an incredible 16-year journey that brought together an exceptional team delivering innovative, insight-driven, and creative solutions which make a positive impact in a rapidly evolving landscape.

IDHL has shown a deep appreciation for The MTM Agency’s culture, creativity, and ambition, and a clear vision for how we can grow together. Its investment brings the scale, resources, and expertise that will ensure both our people and our clients continue to thrive.”

Wes Maynard, Managing Director of The MTM Agency, said:

“Joining with IDHL represents an exciting new chapter for everyone at The MTM Agency. The agency was built on a foundation of creativity, collaboration, and purpose, and this next step allows us to continue to build on those values whilst enhancing our offering and staying true to what makes The MTM Agency unique.

By tapping into IDHL’s network of talent, technology, and performance-driven expertise, we strengthen our ability to deliver powerful, insight-led strategies that own the space between brand, creative, and digital.

I want to thank Gordon and Paul for everything they have done to make The MTM Agency the business it is today, and I look forward to working with IDHL to build on the strength of their legacy and shape the next phase of The MTM Agency’s evolution.”

Robin Lawson, Partner at Bridgepoint, said:

“IDHL’s continued growth is underpinned by a clear vision to build a market-leading digital services platform, with support from Bridgepoint. The acquisition of The MTM Agency strengthens IDHL’s capabilities and further enhances its highly attractive suite of integrated, insight-led marketing solutions. We’re pleased to support Ben and the team as they continue to scale and expand IDHL’s market reach.”

Categories: News

Tags:

Aquiline to Acquire SEI’s Family Office Services Business

No Comments
Aquiline
Following the transaction’s close, the business will operate as Archway, capitalizing on the well-known and respected brand of the Archway Platform within the family office market.

PHILADELPHIA and OAKS, Pa., Feb. 27, 2025 – Aquiline, a private investment firm specializing in financial services and technology, and SEI® (NASDAQ:SEIC) today announced that the companies have entered into a definitive agreement for Aquiline to acquire SEI’s Family Office Services business. Following the transaction’s close, the business will operate as Archway, capitalizing on the well-known and respected brand of the Archway PlatformSM within the family office market.

SEI’s Family Office Services business delivers technology and outsourced services that connect and power the accounting, investment management, and reporting functions of family offices and family office divisions of financial intermediaries. SEI’s Archway Platform is designed to streamline family office operations and deliver advanced financial reporting for ultra-high-net-worth families. As of Dec. 31, 2024, SEI’s Family Office Services business had $723 billion in assets on the Archway Platform.1

“The Archway Platform has long been the premier provider of accounting and reporting software solutions to family offices across the country. Its powerful general ledger engine can support the most complex families, and we are excited to further invest and extend the platform. We are delighted to be partnering with SEI, a leader in the financial services industry who has shepherded this business for nearly a decade.”

Vincenzo La Ruffa,

Managing Partner at Aquiline, commented

“As part of SEI’s broader growth strategy, we’re committed to investing in the areas of our business where we believe we can drive growth, and for more than seven years, we’ve made substantial investments in the solutions and capabilities we deliver for the family office segment. Our talented team has worked tirelessly to build and grow this business, evidenced by its strong reputation in the family office market and our award-winning Archway Platform. We’re proud of their contributions to SEI’s growth, and we could not be more appreciative of their dedication to advancing the technology solutions and delivering best-in-class service for our clients. Aquiline is a well-respected investment partner across the financial services industry. With their strategic commitment to transforming the client experience and streamlining complex family office operations, we believe they can accelerate growth and adoption of the Archway Platform across the private wealth landscape.”

Sandy Ewing,

Head of SEI’s Family Office Services business, added

The total purchase price is $120 million, and the transaction is expected to close in late second quarter 2025, subject to applicable regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC served as financial advisor to Aquiline, and Ropes & Gray LLP served as legal counsel to Aquiline. Holland & Knight served as legal counsel to SEI.1Assets on platform is not indicative of potential revenue.

About Aquiline

Aquiline Capital Partners LP (“Aquiline”) is a private investment firm based in New York, London, and Philadelphia, that is dedicated to financial services and technology. As of September 30, 2024, Aquiline has approximately $11.3 billion of assets under management and has deployed approximately $7.0 billion of capital across the firm’s three strategies in private equity, venture, and credit.

For more information about Aquiline, its investment professionals, and its portfolio companies, visit www.aquiline.com.

About SEI®

SEI (NASDAQ:SEIC) is a leading global provider of financial technology, operations, and asset management services within the financial services industry. SEI tailors its solutions and services to help clients more effectively deploy their capital—whether that’s money, time, or talent—so they can better serve their clients and achieve their growth objectives. As of Dec. 31, 2024, SEI manages, advises, or administers approximately $1.6 trillion in assets. For more information, visit seic.com.

Forward-looking statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning or the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “believe” and “continue” or “appear.” SEI’s forward-looking statements include its’s current expectations as to:

  • its strategic focus;
  • the expected closing date of the transaction discussed in this release; and
  • the operations and prospects of the business after the closing of the transaction described in this release.

You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements in this release, as they are based on the current beliefs and expectations of SEI’s management and subject to significant risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of SEI’s management and are subject to change. Although SEI’s management believes the assumptions upon which it bases SEI’s forward-looking statements are reasonable, they could be inaccurate. The risks and uncertainties in connection with such forward-looking statements related to the acquisition include, but are not limited to:

  • the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could delay the closing of the proposed acquisition;
  • the possibility of non-consummation of the proposed acquisition;
  • the failure to satisfy any of the conditions to the proposed acquisition;
  • the possibility that a governmental entity may prohibit the consummation of the proposed acquisition or may delay or refuse to grant a necessary regulatory approval in connection with the proposed acquisition.

Some of the additional risks and important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those described in SEI’s forward-looking statements can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of SEI’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024, filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

Categories: News

Tags:

CBPE exits Centralis to HGGC

CBPE

CBPE is pleased to announce it has realised its investment in Centralis, a leading international alternative asset and corporate services provider, to HGGC, a middle market private equity firm based in Palo Alto, California. The transaction marks CBPE’s second successful investment in the sector, having listed international corporate services provider JTC on the London Stock Exchange Main Market in 2017.

CBPE partnered with the management team in a primary buyout of Centralis in May 2020. The last five years have seen significant investment in the business, with headcount growing from 134 to 440 along with new systems and technology to support future sustainable growth. Alongside continued double-digit organic growth, the business has completed and integrated seven acquisitions since CBPE invested. These acquisitions have expanded Centralis’ presence within alternative assets, a large and growing end market, alongside its existing client base of blue chip multi-national corporates. Combined organic and inorganic growth has led to revenue increasing over threefold under CBPE’s investment. The transaction is expected to generate a return of 5.3x MoC for CBPE Fund IX, dependent on the timing of completion.

 

It has been a pleasure to work with Aidan and the team over the last five years. The business has developed and grown significantly over this time, while retaining the commitment to exceptional client service which is at the heart of its success. We wish them every success on the next stage of their journey.

Ian Moore, Managing Partner
CBPE

 

We selected CBPE as a partner because of their knowledge and experience of our sector, and of supporting professional services firms with ambitious growth plans. They have been a true partner to Centralis at every step of the way. I am proud of what we have achieved over the last five years, and am excited to be continuing onto the next stage with HGGC.

Aidan Foley, CEO
Centralis

 

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

CBPE’s investment in Centralis was led by Ian Moore, with support from Adam Richardson and Maximilian O’Connell.

The transaction was supported by Baird (M&A), Reed Smith (Legals), PWC (FDD, IT, Operations, Tax), Oliver Wyman (CDD), Kroll (Regulatory), Gallaghers (Insurance) and Anthesis (ESG). Management were advised by SPB (Legals) and Liberty (Corporate Finance).

Categories: News

Tags:

BC Partners acquires a majority stake in premium animal health brand PetLab Co.

BC Partners Logo
  • Investment leverages BC Partners’ expertise in the pet sector, building on its successful investments in Chewy, PetSmart, VetPartners and Antelliq.
  • PetLab Co. is a premium and fast-growing brand within one of the highest growth pet product categories, driven by increased awareness and education on the benefits of supplements.

BC Partners, a leading international investment firm, today announced that it has agreed to acquire a majority stake in PetLab Co., a rapidly growing independent pet supplement brand headquartered in London. The co-founders will also retain a significant investment in the Company. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 2018, PetLab Co. is dedicated to enhancing pet health and wellness with supplements crafted from premium, science-backed ingredients. The company has quickly established itself as a premium global brand with a loyal, recurring customer base. PetLab Co.’s product portfolio includes probiotic chews, dental cleaning powders, allergy and immune chews, and joint care chews, among others. These supplements address common pet ailments such as mobility issues, digestive problems, and allergies, promoting overall wellness and vitality.

Similar to the human world, increased awareness and education on the benefits of supplements are driving the growth of health-conscious pet parents. As a result, the pet supplements category is one of the fastest-growing segments in the pet products market. PetLab Co. is well positioned to capitalize on these growth trends, thanks to its unique ability to connect with pet parents through an innovative and engaging social media and online presence.

BC Partners will partner closely with PetLab Co.’s founders to support the company’s next stage of growth, leveraging its extensive experience and proven track record in the pet care industry. With prior investments in companies such as Chewy, PetSmart, VetPartners, and Antelliq, BC Partners brings a wealth of knowledge, strategic insight, and a robust network to this partnership. This collaboration aims to accelerate PetLab Co.’s growth trajectory, driving innovation and expanding its product portfolio and market presence.

Michael Chang, Partner and Co-Head, Healthcare at BC Partners: “Our investment in PetLab Co. underscores BC Partners’ partnership approach, supporting entrepreneurs in high-growth businesses where we bring differentiated sector knowledge and experience. BC Partners has a longstanding track record in the pet care space through our investments in PetSmart/Chewy and added knowledge in pet health and wellness through our experience building Chewy Health and investing in VetPartners and Antelliq. PetLab Co. has distinguished itself as a standout performer in the growing, wellness-focused pet supplement category. We are excited to work with the PetLab Co. team on the next stages of the company’s growth, driven by our shared mission of improving the lives of pets.”

Chris Masanto, Co-Founder and Co-CEO, PetLab Co: “As pet owners ourselves, we founded PetLab Co. in 2018 to provide the best wellness products for our own pets and share them with other pet parents. Welcoming BC Partners to the PetLab Co. family brings not only financial support but also invaluable industry expertise and relationships. We are thrilled to partner with a firm that shares our commitment to pet wellness. To the team at PetLab Co, thank you for 6 years of relentless hard work. I couldn’t be more excited taking this next step in our journey with you all and BC Partners who I am confident can help take us to the next level. The future couldn’t be brighter.”

BC Partners was advised by Kirkland & Ellis LLP (legal counsel), JP Morgan (financial advisor) and PwC. PetLab Co. was advised by Bank of America

+++

–ENDS —

Media enquiries

BC Partners Luke Charalambous E: luke.charalambous@BCPartners.com T: +44 7775 180 721

About BC Partners BC Partners is a leading investment firm with circa €40 billion in assets under management across private equity, private debt, and real estate strategies. Established in 1986, BC Partners has played an active role for over three decades in developing the European buy-out market. Today BC Partners integrated transatlantic investment teams work from offices in Europe and North America and are aligned across our four core sectors: TMT, Healthcare, Services & Industrials, and Consumer. Since its foundation, BC Partners has completed over 128 private equity investments in companies with a total enterprise value of over €160 billion and is currently investing its eleventh private equity buyout fund. For further information, please visit https://www.bcpartners.com/

About PetLab Co. PetLab Co. is on a mission to deliver breakthrough pet health. Every day, we are realizing our vision to be the world’s most trusted pet health partner by providing innovative and clinically-tested health solutions, educating and engaging pet parents, and making ourselves available to the pet community. Together, with our team of industry veterans, PhD Nutritionists, Product Experts, Clinical Scientists, and Specialized Veterinarians, we employ an inquisitive and ambitious approach to R&D in the nutraceutical space that is grounded in (1) scientific evidence and testing and (2) creating new-to-science, proprietary active-ingredient blends that directly address the root causes of specific pet health issues. A recent powerful example of PetLab Co.’s commitment to groundbreaking R&D is ProBright® Advanced—a powder supplement that represents significant innovation in canine dental care.

Categories: News

Tags:

Ardian provides financing to support Tenzing’s investment in leading UK accountancy firm Gravita

Ardian

Ardian, a world-leading private investment house, today announces a new Private Credit Financing package, comprising Unitranche and Committed Acquisition Facilities, to support Tenzing Private Equity’s (“Tenzing”) investment in Gravita, a top-30 UK accountancy firm.

Acquired by Tenzing in 2021, Gravita is a leading accountancy services consolidation platform, focused on delivering tech-enabled audit, tax, payroll, accounts, company secretarial and other services to over 8,000 businesses across the UK.  The firm has acquired seven businesses with Tenzing’s backing since 2022, bringing Gravita’s headcount to over 500 FTE today.

“We are delighted to partner with Tenzing in backing Gravita, a leading player in the professional services industry. The company’s management team have demonstrated consistent success in delivering robust growth both organically and through well-integrated M&A.  In particular, Caroline Plumb (CEO) has overseen multiple successful acquisitions since joining and has a clear strategy to make Gravita the UK’s leading tech-enabled accountancy firm for growth businesses.” Stuart Hawkins, Head of Private Credit UK & Managing Director, Ardian

Ardian has a 20-year track record in the Private Credit market, making it one of Europe’s longest-established players.  With offices in major financial hubs across Western Europe, the Private Credit team adopts a multi-local approach in partnering with private equity houses and management teams of high-quality companies who are targeting the next phase of business growth.  This investment comes amidst a strong period of investment activity for Ardian’s Private Credit team.

List of participants

  • Participants

    • Ardian: Raaj Rabheru, Eric Hensen, Nova Kannegieter
    • Tenzing: Rob Jones, Laura Meaden, Maria Tozzi Spadoni

ABOUT ARDIAN

Ardian is a world-leading private investment house, managing or advising $177bn of assets on behalf of more than 1,850 clients globally. Our broad expertise, spanning Private Equity, Real Assets and Credit, enables us to offer a wide range of investment opportunities and respond flexibly to our clients’ differing needs. Through Ardian Customized Solutions we create bespoke portfolios that allow institutional clients to specify the precise mix of assets they require and to gain access to funds managed by leading third-party sponsors. Private Wealth Solutions offers dedicated services and access solutions for private banks, family offices and private institutional investors worldwide. Ardian’s main shareholding group is its employees and we place great emphasis on developing its people and fostering a collaborative culture based on collective intelligence. Our 1,050+ employees, spread across 20 offices in Europe, the Americas, Asia and Middle East are strongly committed to the principles of Responsible Investment and are determined to make finance a force for good in society. Our goal is to deliver excellent investment performance combined with high ethical standards and social responsibility.
At Ardian we invest all of ourselves in building companies that last.

Media contacts

Ardian

CohnReznick secures strategic growth investment from Apax Funds

Apax
  • CohnReznick is among the fastest-growing professional services firms in the U.S.
  • The Apax Funds will partner with CohnReznick to drive growth and strengthen its position as a market leader.

CohnReznick LLP (“CohnReznick” or “the Firm”), one of the United States’ leading advisory, assurance, and tax firms, today announced a strategic growth investment from Funds advised by Apax Partners LLP (“Apax”). The transaction marks the first institutional investment in CohnReznick and is expected to help accelerate the Firm’s growth strategy to deliver best-in-class client solutions and create greater career opportunities for employees.

With over 5000 global employees and 350+ partners in 29 offices across the U.S., CohnReznick has a demonstrated track record of above-market organic growth, posting $1.12B in FY25 revenues owing to its deep pool of talented advisers, industry expertise, and extensive service offering. Today, the Firm serves as a trusted adviser to clients in a wide range of industries, including real estate, financial services and financial sponsors, private client services, consumer, manufacturing, renewable energy, and government advisory.

CohnReznick’s delivery of above-market organic growth has been driven by its deep pool of talented advisers and differentiated positioning in key sectors. The Firm holds a strong position in the competitive professional services market, offering a diverse range of services, maintaining industry-leading client satisfaction, and earning recognition as an employer of choice.

In partnership with Apax, CohnReznick intends to invest further in its talent and business to continue to drive growth. Apax will apply its operational expertise and deep experience in professional services to support CohnReznick in advancing its value creation plan, which includes expanding service lines, developing technology-centric client solutions, entering new markets, developing best-in-class talent and advancing its existing tech platform to drive further innovation and efficiency. Apax will also support the Firm in pursuing its targeted acquisitions strategy to further grow its client offering.

David Kessler, CEO of CohnReznick, said: “Our partnership with Apax is a milestone moment in CohnReznick’s history. We have consistently delivered strong growth and cemented our position in the mid-market, thanks to our best-in-class talent, industry expertise, and comprehensive service offerings. This strategic investment from the Apax Funds will help us continue on our growth trajectory, expanding our solutions and geographic presence to meet client needs while continuing to create exciting career growth for our people. We were impressed by the Apax team’s track record in the professional services sector and their experience in driving operational excellence in complex businesses like ours, while continuing to create a best-in-class experience for employees and clients.”

Ashish Karandikar, Partner at Apax Partners, said: “Over the past two years, we have built a strong relationship with the CohnReznick team and have been deeply impressed by the company’s culture, vision, and the consistent growth they have achieved. We are excited to partner with David and the firm’s leadership team to fuel the next phase of growth. Together, we aim to accelerate service line expansion, explore new geographic opportunities, and drive innovation. We look forward to what we are confident will be a highly successful and rewarding partnership.”

Following the closing of the transaction, CohnReznick will operate in an alternative practice structure: CohnReznick LLP, a licensed CPA firm, will provide attest services and Kelly O’Callaghan will serve as CEO — and CohnReznick Advisory LLC (which will not be a licensed CPA firm) will provide tax, advisory, and other non-attest services, led by David Kessler as CEO.

Apax was advised by Guggenheim Securities, LLC and CohnReznick was advised by William Blair & Company, LLC. Koltin Consulting Group served as an additional financial advisor to both Apax and CohnReznick.

Categories: News

Tags:

Aico and Mercur Merge to Form Comprehensive Suite of Solutions for the Office of the CFO

AKKR Logo

Stockholm, SWEDEN & Helsinki, FINLAND – FEBRUARY 26, 2025 — Accel-KKRa global technology-focused investment firm, having completed a majority equity investment in Mercur Solutions (“Mercur”), a leading provider of performance management solutions for mid-sized and large enterprises, today announced Mercur´s merger with Aico, a financial close software platform for mid-market and large enterprises.The merger of Aico and Mercur brings together best-of-breed solutions providers to form a foundational platform as part of the business strategy to serve the Office of the CFO. Aico is known for its financial close capabilities, whereas Mercur helps finance teams budget, forecast, report and analyse company financial data. By integrating Mercur’s powerful corporate performance management (CPM) capabilities with Aico’s seamless financial close platform, the joint companies aim to deliver an end-to-end platform that streamlines financial operations, improves accuracy, increases visibility and drives strategic decision-making for CFOs and their teams.

“CFOs and finance teams today operate in increasingly complex businesses and dynamic environments. Finance professionals need financial software that works hard and works smart – through automation, strong integrations, and complete insight into data – so they can make faster, better decisions and stay one step ahead of business. This partnership brings together two best-of-breed solutions to address the critical needs of modern finance teams,” said Ulf Alkelin, CEO of Aico and Mercur.

Along with an expansion in product offerings, the companies also will see an expanded customer footprint, spanning the Nordics, United Kingdom, Ireland, BENELUX, and DACH. The geographic expansion ensures localised support and coverage of regional needs, while the ability to upsell and cross-sell solutions provides customers with a more comprehensive suite of tools to drive strategic decision-making and business growth.

Maurice Hernandez, managing director at Accel-KKR and a board member of Aico and Mercur quoted, “This merger represents a step forward in our overall goal to be a powerful end-to-end platform that serves the Office of the CFO. We are excited to bring the two companies together, and we look forward to providing support as the business grows.”

The joint companies will be led by Mercur CEO, Ulf Alkelin and supported by an integrated management team comprising leaders from both companies. Aico CEO Marko Voutilainen will transition to a Senior Advisor role to the board.

“I have long seen the growth potential in Aico, and we catalysed that growth with Accel-KKR’s investment in Aico in 2024, and now this merger with Mercur, a well-respected financial performance software leader. This is an exciting time as Aico and Mercur come together and deliver an innovative financial platform to the market. As a Senior Advisor to the board and shareholder in these companies, I wish Ulf and the team good luck, and I am incredibly excited about the possibilities ahead,” stated Marko Voutilainen, Senior Advisor Aico and Mercur.

About Aico Group:

Aico is an advanced financial close platform for mid-market companies and enterprises. Aico helps companies take control of their hectic closing processes, empowering financial teams and freeing time for other important activities. Its customers, including leading European enterprises, achieve a high level of automation and standardisation of processes, faster month-end financial reporting, and assurance of compliance and data accuracy. Established in 2019 in Espoo, Finland, Aico has offices in Finland, Germany, the UK and Latvia. For more information, visit www.aico.ai

About Mercur Solutions:

Mercur Solutions is a leading provider of Corporate Performance Management (CPM) solutions for mid-sized and large enterprises. Our cloud-based platform, Mercur Business Control, enables organizations to optimize their Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) and Extended Planning & Analysis (xP&A) processes, including budgeting, forecasting, planning, and reporting. By leveraging automation and advanced analytics, we empower businesses with deeper financial insights and enhanced operational efficiency. Founded in Sweden, Mercur Solutions has been at the forefront of innovation in financial management for 50 years. With offices in Sweden and the UK, we continue to support organizations in achieving greater control, accuracy, and agility in their financial operations. For more information, visit www.mercur.com or contact us directly

About Accel-KKR:

Accel-KKR is a technology-focused investment firm with $21 billion in cumulative capital commitments. The firm focuses on software and tech-enabled businesses well-positioned for top-line and bottom-line growth. At the core of Accel-KKR’s investment strategy is a commitment to developing strong partnerships with the management teams of its portfolio companies and a focus on building value alongside management by leveraging the significant resources available through the Accel-KKR network. Accel-KKR focuses on middle-market companies and provides a broad range of capital solutions, including buyout capital, minority-growth investments, and credit alternatives. Accel-KKR also invests across various transaction types, including private company recapitalizations, divisional carve-outs and going-private transactions. Accel-KKR’s headquarters is in Menlo Park, with offices in London, Atlanta, Chicago and Mexico City. Visit www.accel-kkr.com to learn more.

Categories: News

Tags:

Platinum Equity’s 2024 Highlighted by $12.4B Fund VI Close, Ingram IPO, Deal Uptick

Platinum

In spite of a challenging climate for fund raising, Platinum Equity Capital Partners VI (“Fund VI”) closed in 2024 with $12.4 billion in capital commitments, exceeding its target.

The global M&A markets saw some signs of a rebound last year after a slow 2023. Platinum Equity reacted with a combination of discipline and creativity, completing 12 new platform acquisitions and 59 add-ons across multiple sectors. The firm’s credit team also had another active year.

Harvesting value was a top priority with 13 divestitures and several other monetization events.

Arguably the most visible news happened in October when Ingram Micro returned to public markets in an initial public offering. The day served as a reminder of the promise Platinum Equity recognized in Ingram Micro when the firm acquired the technology distributor in 2021.

Platinum Equity Chairman and CEO Tom Gores and the firm continued to make positive impact in the community. Gores’ $3 billion partnership with Henry Ford Health and his alma mater Michigan State University to transform a Detroit neighborhood received critical local approval.

Gores and Platinum Equity continued their support of the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, helping raise money for the public charter school in Detroit and working as mentors to JRLA scholars. The firm’s portfolio companies awarded scholarships, raised millions of dollars for charities, and donated time to help those in need.

Although indications are pointing toward a continued M&A uptick in 2025, global activity remains below historical norms. Armed with access to capital and teams capable of pursuing transactions of any size anywhere in the world, the firm is confident in its ability to react to whatever this year has in store.

 

“Although we have grown, we’ve stayed true to our fundamentals. And ultimately, that’s what it’s all about, our ability to execute. The world has gone through up and downs, faced challenges, but Platinum Equity always adjusts.”

Tom Gores, Chairman and CEO, Platinum Equity

 “We’ve been in business for nearly 30 years, and we’ve grown, we’ve matured,” Platinum Equity Founder and CEO Tom Gores said. “We’ve gone through multiple economic cycles, a pandemic, other complicated times.

“Although we have grown, we’ve stayed true to our fundamentals. And ultimately, that’s what it’s all about, our ability to execute. The world has gone through up and downs, faced challenges, but Platinum Equity always adjusts.”

Here’s a look back at 2024:

Platinum Equity Fund VI Closes On $12.4 Billion in Capital Commitments

Fund VI, which closed in the first half of 2024, exceeded its $12 billion target and represents the firm’s largest capital raise to date, surpassing Platinum Equity Capital Partners V, which closed on $10 billion in 2020.

The offering generated high demand from a diverse range of institutional investors around the world and overcame stiff industrywide headwinds that sidelined some managers or forced them to downsize. Fund VI closed with nearly 400 limited partners from 37 countries, featuring a mix of new and long-time investors attracted to the firm’s specialized M&A&O® approach.

Platinum Equity-Backed Ingram Micro Begins Trading on NYSE

Executives from Ingram Micro rang the bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in October to celebrate the global technology distributor’s return to public markets. Since Platinum Equity acquired the business in 2021, the firm has partnered with Ingram on a comprehensive operational improvement plan, accelerated its digital transformation initiatives, and used buy- and sell-side M&A to sharpen the company’s focus on its core business.

Platinum Equity Sells Minority Stake in Jostens, Recaps Balance Sheet

Platinum Equity sold a minority stake in Jostens to Koch Equity Development LLC in a $640 million recapitalization in November. Founded in 1897 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Jostens is a provider of custom class jewelry, graduation products and yearbooks serving the K-12 and college education markets.

Platinum Equity Closes Multiple Complex Carveouts

Platinum Equity completed the acquisition of a majority interest in Horizon Organic and Wallaby from Danone in April. Horizon Organic’s portfolio of organic dairy products includes milk, creamers and whiteners, yogurt, cheese and butter. Also, Platinum Equity closed its deal with Kohler Co. in May to establish Kohler Energy as a separate independent business and officially rebranded it Rehlko, a provider of resilient energy solutions. Platinum Equity is the majority shareholder in the new company and Kohler Co. remains an investment partner.

Platinum Equity Expands Portfolio of Food and Beverage Investments

In December, Platinum Equity acquired a majority stake in Polli, a producer of pasta sauces and vegetable preserves. In November, Platinum Equity and Butterfly, a private equity firm specializing in the food sector completed the acquisition of Rise Baking Company, a supplier of bakery products. Polli and Rise join Horizon Organic, rum bottler E&A Scheer, wine distributor Fantini Group, sweet biscuits maker Biscuit International and frozen seafood producer Iberconsa as portfolio companies in the food and beverage space.

Sunrise Medical Acquisition Highlight of Firm’s European Activity

Platinum Equity’s London team led the acquisition of wheelchair company, Sunrise Medical, which closed in September. The Germany-based company develops, designs, manufactures and distributes assistive mobility products and solutions such as manual and power wheelchairs. Sunrise Medical’s products are sold through a network of homecare medical product dealers or distributors in more than 130 countries. The E&A Scheer and Polli investments were led by the firm’s European Small Cap team.

Platinum Equity Active on Buy- and Sell-Side in Canada

In July, the firm signed a definitive agreement to acquire Héroux-Devtek, a Québec-based international manufacturer of aerospace and defense products and the world’s third largest landing gear manufacturer. The acquisition subsequently closed in February 2025. On the sell-side, Platinum Equity closed out 2024 year with an agreement to divest Toronto-based Livingston International to Purolator in a transaction that closed in February 2025. Platinum Equity said it will continue seeking opportunities to expand its portfolio of Canadian investments.

Platinum Equity Exits Yak Access, Hunterstown Power

Platinum Equity exited its investment in Yak Access in a $1.1 billion sale to strategic buyer United Rentals. Yak Access provides hardwood, softwood and composite mats for surface protection across both construction and maintenance. Platinum Equity also sold the Hunterstown power generation facility and related assets to a strategic buyer in July.

Platinum Equity Makes Foray Into India

In August, Platinum Equity closed its first deal in India with the acquisition of a majority stake in Inventia Healthcare. The Mumbai-based pharmaceuticals company’s main business is generic drugs. Inventia serves a variety of geographies, including the U.S., the U.K., and Latin America. Platinum Equity said it’s increasingly focused on India as the buyout market there continues to evolve, and more opportunities become available that fit the firm’s operations-intensive approach.

Platinum Equity Small Cap Team Makes Multiple Investments

In February, Platinum Equity’s Small Cap team invested in TAK Communications, a national provider of communications and broadband infrastructure services. TAK’s existing shareholder and management remained with the business to partner with Platinum Equity on the transaction. In July, the Small Cap team invested in a majority stake in Motors & Armatures, Inc. (MARS), a distributor of HVAC/R parts, supplies and equipment in the U.S. and Canada.

Platinum Equity Credit Strategy Delivers Lending, Financing, Credit Solutions

In June, Platinum Equity’s credit team provided a first-lien term loan to Westphal Technik, a vertically integrated manufacturer of injection molded plastic components that serves the healthcare and consumer packaged goods end markets. In October, the firm announced a new and upsized second-lien term loan for Railway Equipment Leasing and Maintenance Inc., and in December the credit team led acquisition financing for Branding Iron Holdings in connection with Kingswood Capital Management’s purchase of the company. Branding Iron provides branded and private label protein products.

Tom Gores-Backed New Center Development Receives Detroit OK

The Detroit City Council approved the $3 billion mixed-used development project to transform the New Center neighborhood.  Gores will build housing, greenspace, walkable areas and attract retail partners as part of the project, which is expected to begin in 2025.

Gores, Platinum Equity Continue Support for JRLA Scholars

Tom Gores and Platinum Equity continued their support for the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, a public charter high school founded by former NBA player and media personality, Jalen Rose. In the summer, the Detroit Golf Club hosted the school’s 14th charity celebrity golf outing, which was sponsored by Gores and Platinum Equity.

Platinum Equity Portfolio Companies Continue Charitable Work

Among many charitable efforts, multiple portfolio companies rushed to help residents in the southeastern U.S. after Hurricanes Milton and Helene devastated communities. Diversey, a Solenis company, awarded 18 scholarships valued at $1,000 each for infection prevention professionals to attend the APIC 2024 Annual Conference and Exposition in June in San Antonio. In April, Club Car hosted its annual Club Car Championship tournament, which raised $450,000 for charities in Savannah, Ga. US LBM Foundation raised more than $2.75 million for a variety of charities from its eighth annual golf outing.

Categories: News

Tags:

Blackstone Announces $5.6 Billion Final Close for Blackstone Energy Transition Partners IV at Hard Cap

Blackstone

New York – February 26, 2025 – Blackstone (NYSE: BX) today announced the final close for its energy-transition-focused private equity fund, Blackstone Energy Transition Partners IV (“BETP IV”). BETP IV closed at its hard cap of $5.6 billion and is approximately 33% larger than its predecessor vehicle.

Blackstone Energy Transition Partners (“BETP”) is Blackstone’s energy-focused private equity business, which seeks to help energy companies build enterprises at scale that can deliver cleaner, more reliable and more affordable energy to meet global needs. BETP has been recognized as Private Equity International’s Energy Private Equity Firm of the Year for an unprecedented three years in a row (2021-2023) and was awarded IJ Investor’s Market Innovation of the Year award for North America in 2024 (for transactions occurring in calendar year 2023).

David Foley, Global Head of Blackstone Energy Transition Partners, said: “We believe there is immense opportunity to deliver attractive returns to our limited partners through investments that benefit from the growing demand for electricity, grid reliability and energy efficiency. We are appreciative of this vote of confidence from our investors and are excited to continue partnering with outstanding management teams to build leading companies that are helping support a more reliable, affordable and secure transition to a cleaner energy future.”

Notable energy transition investments include Energy Exemplar, which supports grid reliability with a software platform that allows decision-makers to accurately model electric, gas and water energy markets; Sediver, the world’s leading manufacturer of the toughened glass insulators that enable electric transmission grids; Westwood Professional Services, a leading engineering and consulting firm; Trystar, a premier provider of backup power management solutions; Lancium, a developer providing long term contracted electrical grid access to large scale data centers, and Potomac Energy Center, a 774-megawatt natural gas and hydrogen-ready power plant, among others.

About Blackstone Energy Transition Partners   

Blackstone Energy Transition Partners is Blackstone’s energy-focused private equity business, a leading energy investor with a successful long-term record, having invested approximately $23.5 billion of equity globally across a broad range of sectors within the energy industry. Our investment philosophy is based on backing exceptional management teams with flexible capital to provide solutions that help energy companies grow and improve performance, thereby delivering cleaner, more reliable and affordable energy to meet the needs of the global community. In the process, we build stronger, larger scale enterprises, create jobs and generate lasting value for our investors, employees and all stakeholders.

Contacts

Matt Anderson
(518) 248-7310
Matthew.Anderson@Blackstone.com

Ellie Gottdenker
(347) 610-8646
Ellie.Gottdenker@blackstone.com

Categories: News

Tags:

Adelis and four entrepreneur-led companies join forces to create Circura Danmark, a leading provider of rehabilitation services in Denmark

Adelis Equity

Adelis Equity Partners and four owner-led rehabilitation services companies establish Circura Danmark A/S, which will be a leading group focused on building improvement and rehabilitation for companies, housing associations and public customers in Denmark. With total annual revenue around DKK 750 million and a strong position in a growing market, Circura Danmark and Adelis have an ambition of expanding throughout Denmark through growth and acquisitions.

Circura Danmark has 400 employees in the four entrepreneur-led partner companies Arne Pedersen A/S, Lundbæk & Hansen Bygningsforbedring A/S, LKA Entreprise A/S and Egon Olsen & Søn A/S, which are local market leaders in rehabilitation services and construction works. The companies continue as independent entities with their own company names, locations and management teams in a decentralized group structure with a lean management setup. Cooperation between the companies will contribute to driving development, strengthening sustainability efforts and expanding the group going forward.

“As part of Circura Danmark, the entrepreneurs will get access to capital and tools enabling them to comply with the increasingly strict demands for quality and sustainability in the construction and rehabilitation market, which is expected to show attractive growth rates in the coming years. We see great potential in driving the consolidation of well-run entrepreneurial-led companies with stable earnings and focus on rehabilitation projects and service work as well as close customer relations. Through cooperation, the companies can obtain synergies and develop their competitiveness, making Circura Danmark stand out very clearly from the other players in the Danish market,” say Erik Hallert and Jesper Bahlke at Adelis.

Circura Danmark will draw on Adelis’ comprehensive experience from the construction and rehabilitation sector in the Nordics, where the portfolio includes Circura (Sweden), re:mount (Finland) and Vokstr (Norway).

”We are pleased with this display of trust from the entrepreneurs in the four companies, and we look forward to building on this strong foundation in the coming years. We have gained valuable experience with similar investments in the Nordics and are convinced that Circura Danmark will also be able to obtain a leading position in the Danish market,” says Torbjörn Torell, who will step in as chairman of Circura Danmark and has 45 years of experience from the construction and rehabilitation industry as chairman of Circura Sverige as well as former CEO of One Nordic, Svevia and Bravida, among others.

The companies are focused on creating value for customers in mainly smaller rehabilitation projects and through services, and the partnership will strengthen competitiveness through knowledge sharing, expansion of the offering to customers and scale benefits from being part of a larger group.

“Together, we will have an even higher competency level and a wider and stronger service offering to the benefit of our customers. We are maintaining the local presence and look forward to pursuing growth opportunities together. At the same time, we will jointly take on the task of developing and improving the important efforts within the sustainability field,” says Kim Pedersen (CEO, Arne Pedersen) and Kim Hansen (CEO, Lundbæk & Hansen).

“We are looking forward to the cooperation in Circura Danmark and drawing on our common knowhow, experience and competencies across the companies when we work for our customers with the same sharp focus on quality and accountability, which have always been key to us,” says Kenneth Valentin (CEO, LKA Enterprise) and Michael Hoff-Møller (CEO, Egon Olsen).

Philip Dithmer will join as CFO and Head of M&A. Further, the management team will include a CEO who will be announced later.

Approval from competition authorities is expected no later than April.

For additional information:

Torbjörn Torell, Chairman

Phone: +46 705 77 40 40

Erik Hallert, Adelis Equity Partners

Phone: +46 709 36 80 41

Jesper Bahlke, Adelis Equity Partners

Phone: +46 704 10 45 24

About Circura Danmark

Circura Danmark is a leading group of construction and rehabilitation companies with a primary focus on services, rehabilitation projects and stable earnings. The group is based on a decentralized and customer-oriented business model, which provides the partner companies with the benefits of being part of a larger group. Circura Danmark is comprised of four companies, which are local market leaders, generate total annual revenue of around DKK 750 million and have around 400 employees. For more information, please visit www.circuradanmark.dk.

About Adelis Equity Partners

Adelis is a growth partner for well-positioned companies in the Nordic and DACH regions. Adelis partners with management and/or owners to build businesses in growth segments and with strong market positions. Since raising its first fund in 2013, Adelis has been one of the most active investors in the Nordic middle-market, making 45 platform investments and more than 260 add-on acquisitions. Adelis manages approximately €3.0 billion in capital. For more information, please visit www.adelisequity.com.

Categories: News