Category Archives: News

Stonepeak and Energy Equation Partners to Acquire Majority Interest in JET from Phillips 66

Stonepeak

LONDON & HOUSTON – May 15, 2025 – Stonepeak, a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets, and Energy Equation Partners (“EEP”), a newly formed investment firm with significant expertise in fuel retail, today announced an agreement to acquire a majority interest in JET Tankstellen Deutschland GmbH (“JET”), a leading fuel retailer in Germany and Austria, from a subsidiary of Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX), in a transaction valuing the business at an enterprise value of approximately €2.5 billion. Phillips 66 will retain a 35% minority interest in JET as part of the transaction through a newly formed joint venture.

JET is one of the largest fuel retailers in Germany and Austria, serving more than 700,000 customers daily with quality products at fair prices through a network of 970 service stations. Located primarily in urban and high-traffic areas, JET also operates convenience stores, car washes and a rapidly growing EV charging network. JET has been named Germany’s most popular gas station brand by YouGov Deutschland for 15 years in a row.

“We are pleased to partner with Phillips 66 and Stonepeak to build on the strong foundation of the JET platform,” said Javed Ahmed, Managing Partner of Energy Equation Partners. “Together with the outstanding JET team and its dedicated service station operators, we aim to strengthen JET’s leadership in both fuel and non-fuel retail across Germany and Austria. We are committed to supporting a seamless transition and continuing JET’s legacy as a key player in the evolving retail energy sector.”

“JET’s high-quality network of critical infrastructure assets is well positioned to continue reliably serving the needs of its customers over the long-term,” said Anthony Borreca, Senior Managing Director and Co-Head of Energy at Stonepeak. “Under Phillips 66’s ownership, JET has grown into one of the largest fuel retailers in Germany and Austria. We are excited to join forces with them, as well as Javed and the EEP team, who have long-standing experience investing in and operating retail fuel distribution and logistics globally, to support the next phase of JET’s growth.”

The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025, subject to customary regulatory approvals. Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP and Hengeler Mueller served as legal counsel to Stonepeak and EEP. Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as financing counsel to Stonepeak and EEP.

About Stonepeak
Stonepeak is a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets with approximately $73 billion of assets under management. Through its investment in defensive, hard-asset businesses globally, Stonepeak aims to create value for its investors and portfolio companies, with a focus on downside protection and strong risk-adjusted returns. Stonepeak, as sponsor of private equity and credit investment vehicles, provides capital, operational support, and committed partnership to grow investments in its target sectors, which include digital infrastructure, energy and energy transition, transport and logistics, and real estate. Stonepeak is headquartered in New York with offices in Houston, Washington, D.C., London, Hong Kong, Seoul, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh. For more information, please visit www.stonepeak.com.

About Energy Equation Partners
Energy Equation Partners is an energy specialist investment firm that seeks to invest in companies that are well established in the energy sector and have the potential to play a valuable role in the shift from “brown to green”. Over the past two decades, the principals of EEP have deployed over $10 billion of equity capital across the energy value chain globally and have significant experience in fuel retail.

Contacts

For Stonepeak:
Kate Beers / Maya Brounstein
corporatecomms@stonepeak.com
+1 (646) 540-5225

For Energy Equation Partners:
Sari Haidar
sari@energyequationpartners.com
+44 75 5112 5113

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Main Capital backed TMA acquires US based Decisionwise

Main Capital Partners

TMA’s acquisition of DecisionWise enhances talent management solutions, expands cross-Atlantic reach, and strengthens growth, serving 450 clients in 75 countries.

The Hague, May 15th 2025 – TMA announces its acquisition of DecisionWise, a US-based provider of cloud-based employee feedback and engagement solutions. The combination between TMA and DecisionWise creates a cross-Atlantic player within the talent management and engagement market. This investment marks TMA’s first acquisition since the partnership with Main Capital Partners in December 2024.

Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Springville, Utah, DecisionWise is a provider of employee experience surveys, employee engagement and a 360-degree feedback platform. The company serves approximately 450 clients across 70+ countries with 20% software growth. The solutions are sector agnostic and used by customers active across education, government, manufacturing, and healthcare, among other industries. Customers include Dropbox, City of Seattle, Avocados from Mexico, Standford University, ChildFund, American Automobile Association, and Fidelity International.

TMA is a provider of talent management solutions in the HR software space. TMA’s integrated talent management platform enables customers to manage human capital through assessments and other employee development solutions across the pre- and post-hiring phase. By combining strong industry expertise, market knowledge, and the latest IT developments, TMA has developed the scientifically based ‘TMA Method.’

The solutions provided by TMA & DecisionWise are complementary. The combination offers customers tools to manage and retain talent by identifying and tracking performance, engagement, and overall satisfaction. TMA’s strategy is to offer customers all tools to optimally position employees for long-term success. Talent management is one piece of this puzzle and employee experience is another key piece. Customers worldwide rely on both TMA and DecisionWise software solutions. Together, the combined solutions are used in 75 countries and continue to experience strong annual software growth of over 20%.

TMA maintains a global customer base but will be able to better serve North America and specifically United States-based customers.

– Charly Zwemstra, Managing Partner & CEO at Main

Charly Zwemstra, Managing Partner & CEO at Main, “We are very pleased to announce this major strategic step for TMA in becoming a global talent management player. Talent management remains a top priority for employers who face daily talent-related challenges. Talent retention post-identification is also crucial for organizations, and Employee Experience plays an important role in achieving this objective. This combination allows TMA to not only expand its product offering, but also its geographical coverage. TMA maintains a global customer base but will be able to better serve North America and specifically United States-based customers while also providing a more extensive product offering to customers based in Europe and across the rest of the world.”

Bastian Müller, CEO of TMA, said, “We are thrilled to join forces with DecisionWise, and we see an excellent cultural and product fit that we’re excited to continue developing through the next stages of our growth. We fundamentally believe that happy employees create and drive performing organizations. In order to track employee happiness, employee experience is key and DecisionWise’s software perfectly serves those needs.”

Matthew Wride, CEO at DecisionWise, concluded, “We are looking forward to this new chapter for DecisionWise. We are very excited about the strong fit between TMA and DecisionWise and we expect to better serve our customers’ needs across the areas of talent management, employee experience management, and people analytics.

About TMA

TMA is a Dutch provider of talent management software founded in 1999. The company started as a profiling theory within Human Resource Management, which they developed into an innovative software solution. The company serves more than 600 customers globally and continues its growth towards becoming one of the leading providers of cloud-based talent management solutions.

About DecisionWise

DecisionWise is an American provider of Employee Experience (EX) solutions to businesses worldwide. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Springville, Utah, DecisionWise is a provider of employee experience surveys, employee engagement solutions, and a 360-degree feedback platform. The company serves over 450 clients across +70 countries.

Nothing contained in this Press Release is intended to project, predict, gu

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Akido Raises $60 Million Series B to Expand Reach of ScopeAI, its Breakthrough Health Artificial Intelligence

Oak HC FT

Akido’s ScopeAI is a first-of-its-kind system that fully integrates AI into a provider visit

Akido Labs, Inc. (“Akido”), the AI and care delivery company reimagining healthcare, today announced it has raised $60 million in Series B funding. The round was led by Oak HC/FT with participation from Greco, SNR, and existing investors Y Combinator, Future Communities Capital, Jeff Dean (Chief Scientist, Google DeepMind & Google Research), and the Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center. Funding will be used to expand the reach of ScopeAI, a system that increases clinical capacity and improves healthcare access.

ScopeAI is transforming how Akido providers practice medicine – enabling them to care for dramatically more patients without compromising on quality. This unlocks time for providers to focus on complex cases, while increasing the total number of patients the system can support. The U.S. population requires over 3 billion doctor visits per year, yet only 825 million are currently available. The result is longer waits, especially for specialists, rushed appointments, and rising rates of preventable disease. Akido is addressing this crisis by embedding powerful medical intelligence directly into the clinical workflow – bringing scale, efficiency, and consistency to the front lines of care.

“We built ScopeAI to tackle the single biggest challenge facing healthcare systems worldwide: the physician shortage. With demand for care far exceeding supply, AI is the key to addressing the global doctor deficit, empowering healthcare providers, and ensuring patients receive the timely, high-quality care they deserve, regardless of financial means or geography,” said Prashant Samant, Co-Founder & CEO of Akido. “At Akido, we believe exceptional healthcare is a basic human right. Our work has always focused on democratizing high quality healthcare, and this funding enables us to accelerate that mission.”

In a ScopeAI visit, a trained Medical Assistant (MA) meets with a patient, guided by intelligent prompts from ScopeAI throughout the encounter. ScopeAI uses clinical reasoning to actively listen, adapt in real time, and build a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition. Its scribing and auditory capabilities allow for dynamic conversation while simultaneously generating a full clinical report, including a preliminary diagnosis, treatment plan, and justification log for each decision it makes. With ScopeAI, providers gain a deeper, more complete picture of a patient’s health with less time spent capturing it. An Akido provider can oversee a team of MAs conducting ScopeAI visits, increasing access to care while enabling the provider to focus on higher-acuity or more complex cases.

Akido’s AI-based healthcare visits have delivered 5x more face-to-face time with patients and have achieved a 96 NPS score. With this new funding, Akido will accelerate the development and deployment of ScopeAI throughout its Akido Care medical network of 240 providers across 26 specialties. It will also help support Akido’s entrance into new markets like the recently announced first-of-its-kind healthcare program in New York City that is designed to address specific chronic diseases for professional rideshare and for-hire drivers.

“Akido is delivering on the promise of changing how patients experience a visit with their provider through AI,” said Andrew Adams, Co-Founder & Managing Partner at Oak HC/FT. “With its robust, longitudinal dataset, Akido has the refinement in its foundational model to offer clinical accuracy where others have struggled. We are excited to partner with their exceptional team of healthcare and technical operators to scale ScopeAI, expanding access to high-quality, AI-powered care for more patients.”

Akido was founded in 2015 with the goal of reimagining healthcare for historically vulnerable communities by leveraging AI and machine learning. In 2022, Akido launched Akido Care, a medical network that today includes nearly 100 clinics, offering primary and specialty care across 26 sub-specialties. This dual strategy is what created the opportunity for Akido to leverage its proprietary dataset of over 10 million patient case studies and reinforcement-loop-human-feedback (RLHF) environment to launch ScopeAI. ScopeAI is one of the most sophisticated clinical AI systems available to providers, and it is continuously refined by incorporating real-time provider feedback. By integrating ScopeAI into the Akido Care medical network, Akido is positioned to empower providers to deliver highly personalized care to an individual patient while also scaling programs at a population level.

About Akido

Akido is pioneering a reimagined healthcare system with AI at its core; one that bridges artificial intelligence and empathy to bring exceptional healthcare to everyone. Its breakthrough technology unlocks the ability to transform the clinical experience, empowering providers and patients through an entirely new healthcare model. Founded in 2015, Akido was created out of the University of Southern California’s Digital Health Lab with the idea that empowering government, healthcare, and nonprofit services with population-based data could help usher in a new era of preventive public health. Known for developing award-winning data and technology solutions, today Akido leverages its market-leading technology to power its bicoastal Akido Care medical network, which includes more than 240 providers and 90 clinics across both coasts and a patient base of nearly half a million. For more information, please visit www.akidolabs.com.

About Oak HC/FT

Oak HC/FT is a venture and growth equity firm specializing in investments in fintech and healthcare. Using partnership as a foundation, Oak HC/FT guides companies and founders at every stage, from seed to growth, to create businesses that make a measurable and lasting impact. Founded in 2014, Oak HC/FT has invested in over 85 portfolio companies and has over $5.3 billion in assets under management. Oak HC/FT is headquartered in Stamford, CT, with an office in San Francisco, CA. Follow Oak HC/FT on LinkedIn and X and learn more at https://www.oakhcft.com/.

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EQT completes sale of common stock of Kodiak Gas Services

eqt
  • The sale resulted in gross proceeds of c. USD126 million

An affiliate of the funds known as EQT Infrastructure III and EQT Infrastructure IV (“EQT”) is pleased to announce the completion of the sale (the “Sale”) of c. 3.2 million shares of common stock of Kodiak Gas Services, Inc. (NYSE: KGS) (the “Company”) for gross proceeds of c. USD116 million. The Sale was made on May 12, 2025, pursuant to Rule 144 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. J.P. Morgan Securities LLC acted as the broker for the Sale. Concurrently with the closing of the Sale, the Company repurchased c. 278,000 shares of its common stock from EQT in a private transaction for gross proceeds of c. USD10 million. Following these transactions, EQT now holds c. 31.3 million shares of the Company’s common stock.

Contact

EQT Press Office, press@eqtpartners.com

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About EQT

EQT is a purpose-driven global investment organization with EUR 273 billion in total assets under management (EUR 142 billion in fee-generating assets under management) as of 31 March 2025, within two business segments – Private Capital and Real Assets. EQT owns portfolio companies and assets in Europe, Asia Pacific and the Americas and supports them in achieving sustainable growth, operational excellence and market leadership.

More info: www.eqtgroup.com

Follow EQT on LinkedIn, X, YouTube and Instagram

About Kodiak

Kodiak is a leading contract compression services provider in the United States, serving as a critical link in the infrastructure that enables the safe and reliable production and transportation of natural gas and oil. Headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, Kodiak provides contract compression and related services to oil and gas producers and midstream customers in high–volume gas gathering systems, processing facilities, multi-well gas lift applications and natural gas transmission systems.

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Carlyle, SK Capital Partners and bluebird bio Amend Merger Agreement

Carlyle

Stockholders may elect to receive either $3.00 per share plus CVR of $6.84 per share in cash payable upon achievement of a net sales milestone or $5.00 per share with no CVR

SOMERVILLE, Mass.—(BUSINESSWIRE)—May 14, 2025—bluebird bio, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLUE) (“bluebird”), Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) (“Carlyle”) and SK Capital Partners, LP (“SK Capital”) today announced they have amended their definitive agreement pursuant to which  Carlyle and SK Capital will purchase all of the outstanding shares of bluebird. Under the terms of the amended agreement bluebird stockholders can elect to receive either (x) the original offer of $3.00 per share in cash plus a contingent value right (“CVR”) of $6.84 per share in cash payable upon achievement of a net sales milestone or (y) $5.00 per share in cash. The amended offer price provides an alternative for stockholders who would prefer greater upfront cash consideration instead of the potential upside of the CVR. Any shares tendered for which no election is made will receive the original consideration of $3.00 per share in cash and a contingent value right per share.

The bluebird board of directors unanimously approved the amended agreement and recommends that all stockholders immediately tender their shares in support of the transaction.  The bluebird board of directors continues to believe that the transaction with Carlyle and SK Capital, as amended, represents the only viable option for stockholders to receive consideration for their shares. Absent a majority of stockholders tendering, bluebird is at significant risk of defaulting on its loan agreements with Hercules Capital, and it is extremely unlikely that stockholders would receive any consideration for their shares in a bankruptcy or liquidation.

In connection with the amended agreement, the expiration date of the tender offer has been extended to expire at one minute after 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on May 29, 2025. Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, the depositary for the Offer, has advised that as of the close of business on May 13, 2025, approximately 2,281,724 shares of bluebird common stock have been validly tendered and not properly withdrawn pursuant to the Offer.

Instructions for Stockholders:

  • Stockholders that have previously tendered their shares and elect to receive the original offer of $3.00 per share plus a CVR do not need to re-tender their shares or take any other action in response to this extension
  • Stockholders that have previously tendered their shares and wish to elect to receive $5.00 per share in cash must withdraw and re-tender their shares and complete and sign the letter of election and transmittal attached to the Offer to Purchase. Detailed instructions are available in the Offer to Purchase.
  • Stockholders that hold shares of bluebird through a broker or other nominee may be subject to a processing cutoff that is prior to the tender deadline, so it is important to act now.
  • Stockholders who need assistance with tendering their shares of bluebird may contact the Information Agent, Innisfree M&A Incorporated, by calling toll-free at (877) 825-8793.

As previously announced on May 5, 2025, Carlyle and SK Capital have received all required regulatory approvals to complete the transaction, and all parties expect the transaction to be consummated promptly following the successful completion of the ongoing tender offer.

About bluebird bio, Inc.

Founded in 2010, bluebird has been setting the standard for gene therapy for more than a decade—first as a scientific pioneer and now as a commercial leader.  bluebird has an unrivaled track record in bringing the promise of gene therapy out of clinical studies and into the real-world setting, having secured FDA approvals for three therapies in under two years.  Today, we are proving and scaling the commercial model for gene therapy and delivering innovative solutions for access to patients, providers, and payers.

With a dedicated focus on severe genetic diseases, bluebird has the largest and deepest ex-vivo gene therapy data set in the field, with industry-leading programs for sickle cell disease, ß-thalassemia, and cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy.  We custom design each of our therapies to address the underlying cause of disease and have developed in-depth and effective analytical methods to understand the safety of our lentiviral vector technologies and drive the field of gene therapy forward.

bluebird continues to forge new paths as a standalone commercial gene therapy company, combining our real-world experience with a deep commitment to patient communities and a people-centric culture that attracts and grows a diverse flock of dedicated birds.

About Carlyle

Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across its business and conducts its operations through three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit and Carlyle AlpInvest.  With $453 billion of assets under management as of March 31, 2025, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. Carlyle employs more than 2,300 people in 29 offices across four continents.  Further information is available at www.carlyle.com. Follow Carlyle on X @OneCarlyle and LinkedIn at The Carlyle Group.

About SK Capital 

SK Capital is a transformational private investment firm with a disciplined focus on the life sciences, specialty materials, and ingredients sectors.  The firm seeks to build resilient, sustainable, and growing businesses that create substantial long-term value.  SK Capital aims to utilize its industry, operating, and investment experience to identify opportunities to transform businesses into higher performing organizations with improved strategic positioning, growth, and profitability, as well as lower operating risk.  SK Capital’s portfolio of businesses generates revenues of approximately $12 billion annually, employs more than 25,000 people globally, and operates more than 200 plants in over 30 countries.  The firm currently has approximately $9 billion in assets under management. For more information, please visit www.skcapitalpartners.com.

 

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This communication is not an offer to buy nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities of bluebird.  The solicitation and the offer to buy shares of bluebird’s common stock is only being made pursuant to the Tender Offer Statement on Schedule TO (as amended), including an offer to purchase, a letter of election and transmittal and other related materials, that Parent and Merger Sub filed with the SEC. In addition, bluebird filed with the SEC a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 (as amended) with respect to the tender offer. Investors may obtain a free copy of these materials and other documents filed by Parent, Merger Sub and bluebird with the SEC at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.  Investors may also obtain, at no charge, any such documents filed with or furnished to the SEC by (i) bluebird under the “Investors & Media” section of bluebird’s website at www.bluebirdbio.com or (ii) by Parent and Merger Sub by calling Innisfree M&A Incorporated, the information agent for the Offer, toll-free at (877) 825-8793 for stockholders or by calling collect at (212) 750-5833 for banks or brokers.

INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE ADVISED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 OF BLUEBIRD AND ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO, AS WELL AS ANY OTHER DOCUMENTS RELATING TO THE TENDER OFFER AND THE MERGER THAT ARE FILED WITH THE SEC, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY PRIOR TO MAKING ANY DECISIONS WITH RESPECT TO WHETHER TO TENDER THEIR SHARES INTO THE TENDER OFFER BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION, INCLUDING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE TENDER OFFER.

Investors & Media Contacts 

Bluebird 

Investors: 

Courtney O’Leary

(978) 621-7347

coleary@bluebirdbio.com

Media: 

Jess Rowlands

(857) 299-6103

jess.rowlands@bluebirdbio.com

 

Carlyle 

Media: 

Brittany Berliner

(212) 813-4839

brittany.berliner@carlyle.com

SK Capital 

Ben Dillon

(646)-278-1353  

bdillon@skcapitalpartners.com

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CapMan Special Situations invests in assisted residential care

Capman

CapMan Special Situations invests in assisted residential care

The CapMan Special Situations I -fund invests in two providers of assisted residential care for the elderly, Nonna Group Oy and Aurahovi Oy, with the aim of building a leading nationwide operator in the sector.

Both companies offer tailored housing and care services to meet the diverse needs of the elderly. Nonna Group, founded in 2020, operates five units located in Rovaniemi, Oulu, Turku and Kuopio, with estimated revenue of approximately €5 million in 2024. Aurahovi, established in 2017, runs four units in Lieto, Huittinen, Uusikaupunki and Helsinki, with 2024 revenue of around €4 million.

By combining the two companies, CapMan Special Situations is forming one of Finland’s leading operators in the residential care sector, with a nationwide network of nine housing units and around 500 apartments.

“Assisted residential care addresses the growing need to provide seniors with meaningful daily life and tailored support. By bringing together two strong companies, we are laying the foundation for a nationwide operator with excellent potential for growth and societal impact. We look forward to working with the new management to drive the next phase of development and growth,” says Karri Keistinen, Investment Manager at CapMan Special Situations.

“Assisted residential care is a new service model that has gained strong support in regional welfare strategies. It is designed for seniors whose needs are not fully met by home care but who do not yet require round-the-clock support. Both companies have great potential, an excellent workforce and satisfied customers, providing a solid foundation for future success”, comments Jere Pessala, new CEO of Nonna Group and Aurahovi.

Investments in Aurahovi Oy and Nonna Group Oy constitute the seventh investment for the CapMan Special Situations I fund.

For more information, please contact:

Karri Keistinen, Investment Manager, CapMan Special Situations, +358 40 735 6593

Jere Pessala, CEO, Nonna Group & Aurahovi, +358 40 538 3834

About CapMan

CapMan is a leading Nordic private asset expert with an active approach to value creation and €6.4 billion in assets under management. As one of the private equity pioneers in the Nordics we have developed hundreds of companies and assets creating significant value for over three decades. Our objective is to provide attractive returns and innovative solutions to investors by enabling change across our portfolio companies. An example of this is greenhouse gas reduction targets that we have set under the Science Based Targets initiative in line with the 1.5°C scenario and our commitment to net-zero GHG emissions by 2040. We have a broad presence in the unlisted market through our local and specialised teams. Our investment strategies cover real estate and infrastructure assets, natural capital and minority and majority investments in portfolio companies. We also provide wealth management solutions. Altogether, CapMan employs around 200 professionals in Helsinki, Jyväskylä, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, London and Luxembourg. We are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki since 2001. www.capman.com

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Julius Clinical and Peachtree BioResearch Solutions Merge to Form a Fully Integrated Global CRO with Increased CNS Capabilities

Ampersand

Zeist, Netherlands, May 14, 2025– Julius Clinical, a leading full-service Contract Research Organization (CRO) headquartered in the Netherlands (Zeist), and Peachtree BioResearch Solutions, a specialized CNS CRO based in the United States (Georgia), announce they have merged as a fully integrated clinical research organization. The merger combines scientific and operational excellence, an expanded international footprint and increased capabilities across therapeutic areas, particularly within CNS.

Building on nearly a decade of successful collaboration between the two companies, the merged organization creates a comprehensive clinical CRO, bringing together extensive expertise in managing Phase I – III clinical trials with particular depth in central nervous system (CNS), cardio-metabolic, renal and rare diseases. Their combined strength delivers end-to-end clinical research services, enhanced global access in Europe and North America, and robust scientific expertise tailored to pharmaceutical-, biotech-, and medical device companies.

“We are thrilled to merge with Peachtree BioResearch Solutions,” says Martijn Wallert, Chief Executive Officer of Julius Clinical. “This marks a significant step forward in expanding our presence and deepening our capabilities across North America and Europe. This natural evolution of our long-term successful relationship allows us to leverage our aligned strengths to become a more versatile and capable partner for our clients.”

“This merger represents a transformative opportunity for Peachtree, our dedicated team, and the clients we serve,” says Kristy Nichols, Chief Executive Officer of Peachtree BioResearch Solutions. “By joining forces with Julius Clinical, we are significantly expanding our capabilities, offering our clients access to an established international network while preserving the personalized approach we are known for.”

This strategic move, combining global reach with the flexibility of a highly specialized provider, positions Julius Clinical and Peachtree BioResearch Solutions to better address the increasing complexity and borderless nature of modern clinical research as they work together with innovators to advance therapies to patients worldwide.

Julius Clinical is supported by Ampersand Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm specializing in growth equity investments in the life sciences and healthcare sectors.

 

About Julius Clinical

Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Zeist, The Netherlands, Julius Clinical is a leading CRO specializing in central nervous system, cardio-metabolic, renal, and rare diseases. With over 380 clinical trials and 220,000+ subjects across 39 countries, Julius Clinical combines scientific leadership, operational excellence, and a global network of research sites to deliver tailored solutions for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and partners. For more information, visit https://www.juliusclinical.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

About Ampersand Capital Partners

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

About Peachtree BioResearch Solutions

Founded in 2008, Peachtree BioResearch Solutions, Inc. is a Clinical Research Organization that specializes in providing clinical development services for emerging to mid-sized biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies. With a highly experienced clinical development team, Peachtree offers Clinical Project Management, Clinical Monitoring, Medical Monitoring, Biometrics, Technical Report Writing, Quality Assurance, and Clinical Staff Resourcing. Peachtree has grown its portfolio to over 65 clients providing services ranging from niche projects to full-service support. For additional information, visit https://peachtreebrs.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

Peachtree BioResearch Solutions

 

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IK Partners to acquire Lohoff

IK Partners

IK Partners (“IK”) is pleased to announce that the IK Small Cap III (“IK SC III”) Fund has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Lohoff Pension Services GmbH (“Lohoff” or “the Company”), a German specialist provider of occupational pension administration solutions, from the founding family. IK is investing from its dedicated pool of Development Capital, alongside the Company’s existing management team. Financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

Founded in 1992 by Petra and Heinz-Günter Lohoff and headquartered in Isernhagen, Germany, Lohoff is a full-service provider of occupational pension administration solutions, offering its clients and their employees a comprehensive, fully digitalised and software-enabled pension administration platform. The Company primarily focuses on managing complex occupational pension schemes for large corporations. Its offering includes highly automated and customisable processes, systems and reporting structures. As a result, Lohoff has built longstanding partnerships with a broad and diversified base of customers, including many notable blue-chip clients.

Lohoff has a highly experienced team, focused on designing and delivering tailored solutions for the occupational pension market. The Company operates from two locations: its main office in Isernhagen, near Hanover and a secondary base in Warnemünde, near Rostock.

With IK’s support, Lohoff plans to strengthen its market position by expanding its product and software offerings across existing verticals and complementary service areas, while continuing to invest in operational scalability, systems enhancements and digital infrastructure.

Petra Lohoff, Founder and Shareholder of Lohoff, said: “I am very pleased to see the vision my husband and I built being carried forward by IK, in partnership with the management team at Lohoff. IK brings the right combination of experience and perspective to support the Company’s continued growth. I wish all parties every success in this new chapter.”

Martin de Vries, Managing Director at Lohoff, said: “I am extremely proud of what we have achieved at Lohoff. With over two decades of experience in designing, implementing and administering pension plans, we are well positioned to benefit from long-term structural growth in the market. This new partnership comes at the right time as we look to enhance our offering and continue delivering a best-in-class service. We are excited to work with IK, who bring the strategic insight and expertise required to support Lohoff in its next phase of growth.”

Sebastian Hinz, Managing Director at Lohoff, commented: “We are proud of the strong and differentiated position we have built over the last two decades. Lohoff’s unique capabilities in digital integration and service customisation have allowed us to build lasting relationships with clients that manage complex pension structures. We look forward to working with IK as we scale the business and broaden our service offering.”

Ingmar Bär, Partner at IK and Advisor to the IK SC III Fund, added: “Lohoff has positioned itself as a leading provider of specialist pension administration services in an attractive, resilient market supported by strong regulatory tailwinds. Its strong IT capabilities, high quality standards and flexible offering provide a solid foundation for continued growth. We are pleased to be partnering with Martin, Sebastian and their team to accelerate the Company’s development and leverage our expertise in the Business Services sector to support its ambitions.”

For further questions, please contact:
IK Partners
Vidya Verlkumar
Phone: +44 (0)7787 558 193
vidya.verlkumar@ikpartners.com

About Lohoff Pension Services

Lohoff Pension Services (“Lohoff”) was founded in 1992 and is a leading provider of occupational pension plan administration solutions. The Company leverages over 30 years of experience to deliver highly flexible, bespoke administration services tailored to the specific needs of its client base. Lohoff acts as a trusted partner to its blue-chip clients throughout the entire occupational pension lifecycle, supporting the design, implementation and ongoing management of their pension schemes. For more information, visit lohoff.com

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About IK Partners

IK Partners (“IK”) is a European private equity firm focused on investments in the Benelux, DACH, France, Nordics and the UK. Since 1989, IK has raised more than €19 billion of capital and invested in over 200 European companies. IK supports companies with strong underlying potential, partnering with management teams and investors to create robust, well-positioned businesses with excellent long-term prospects. For more information, visit ikpartners.com

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Carlyle and SK Capital Partners Announce Extension of bluebird bio Tender Offer to May 28, 2025

Carlyle

WASHINGTON, DC and NEW YORK, NY—May 13, 2025—Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) (“Carlyle”), SK Capital Partners, LP (“SK Capital”) and Beacon Parent Holdings, L.P. (“Parent”) today announced that Beacon Merger Sub, Inc. (“Merger Sub”) has extended the expiration date of its offer (the “Offer”) to acquire all of the outstanding common stock of bluebird bio, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLUE) (“bluebird”), to expire at one minute after 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on May 28, 2025.  The Offer was previously scheduled to expire one minute after 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on May 12, 2025.

Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, the depositary for the Offer, has advised Merger Sub that as of the close of business on May 12, 2025, approximately 2,502,927 shares of bluebird common stock have been validly tendered and not properly withdrawn pursuant to the Offer. Holders that have previously tendered their shares do not need to re-tender their shares or take any other action in response to this extension.

The Offer is being made pursuant to the terms and conditions described in the Offer to Purchase, dated March 7, 2025 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the “Offer to Purchase”), the related letter of transmittal and certain other offer documents, copies of which are attached to the tender offer statement on Schedule TO filed by Parent and Merger Sub with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 7, 2025, as amended.

The Offer is conditioned upon the fulfilment of certain conditions described in “Section 15—Conditions to the Offer” of the Offer to Purchase, including, but not limited to, the tender of a majority of the outstanding shares of bluebird and other customary closing conditions.

About bluebird bio, Inc.

Founded in 2010, bluebird has been setting the standard for gene therapy for more than a decade—first as a scientific pioneer and now as a commercial leader. bluebird has an unrivaled track record in bringing the promise of gene therapy out of clinical studies and into the real-world setting, having secured FDA approvals for three therapies in under two years. Today, we are proving and scaling the commercial model for gene therapy and delivering innovative solutions for access to patients, providers, and payers.

With a dedicated focus on severe genetic diseases, bluebird has the largest and deepest ex-vivo gene therapy data set in the field, with industry-leading programs for sickle cell disease, ß-thalassemia, and cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy. We custom design each of our therapies to address the underlying cause of disease and have developed in-depth and effective analytical methods to understand the safety of our lentiviral vector technologies and drive the field of gene therapy forward.

bluebird continues to forge new paths as a standalone commercial gene therapy company, combining our real-world experience with a deep commitment to patient communities and a people-centric culture that attracts and grows a diverse flock of dedicated birds.

About Carlyle

Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across its business and conducts its operations through three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit and Global Investment Solutions. With $441 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2024, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. Carlyle employs more than 2,300 people in 29 offices across four continents. Further information is available at www.carlyle.com. Follow Carlyle on X @OneCarlyle and LinkedIn at The Carlyle Group.

About SK Capital 

SK Capital is a transformational private investment firm with a disciplined focus on the life sciences, specialty materials, and ingredients sectors. The firm seeks to build resilient, sustainable, and growing businesses that create substantial long-term value. SK Capital aims to utilize its industry, operating, and investment experience to identify opportunities to transform businesses into higher performing organizations with improved strategic positioning, growth, and profitability, as well as lower operating risk. SK Capital’s portfolio of businesses generates revenues of approximately $12 billion annually, employs more than 25,000 people globally, and operates more than 200 plants in over 30 countries. The firm currently has approximately $9 billion in assets under management. For more information, please visit www.skcapitalpartners.com. 

 

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This communication is not an offer to buy nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities of bluebird. The solicitation and the offer to buy shares of bluebird’s common stock is only being made pursuant to the Tender Offer Statement on Schedule TO, including an offer to purchase, a letter of transmittal and other related materials, that Parent and Merger Sub filed with the SEC. In addition, bluebird filed with the SEC a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 with respect to the tender offer. Investors may obtain a free copy of these materials and other documents filed by Parent, Merger Sub and bluebird with the SEC at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Investors may also obtain, at no charge, any such documents filed with or furnished to the SEC by (i) bluebird under the “Investors & Media” section of bluebird’s website at www.bluebirdbio.com or (ii) by Parent and Merger Sub by calling Innisfree M&A Incorporated, the information agent for the Offer, toll-free at (877) 825-8793 for stockholders or by calling collect at (212) 750-5833 for banks or brokers.

INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE ADVISED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 OF BLUEBIRD AND ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO, AS WELL AS ANY OTHER DOCUMENTS RELATING TO THE TENDER OFFER AND THE MERGER THAT ARE FILED WITH THE SEC, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY PRIOR TO MAKING ANY DECISIONS WITH RESPECT TO WHETHER TO TENDER THEIR SHARES INTO THE TENDER OFFER BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION, INCLUDING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE TENDER OFFER.

Investors & Media Contacts 

Bluebird 

Investors: 

Courtney O’Leary

978-621-7347

coleary@bluebirdbio.com

Media: 

Jess Rowlands

857-299-6103

jess.rowlands@bluebirdbio.com

 

Carlyle 

Media: 

Brittany Berliner

+1 (212) 813-4839

brittany.berliner@carlyle.com

SK Capital 

Ben Dillon

+1(646)-278-1353  

bdillon@skcapitalpartners.com

Categories: News

Ardian and Rockfield strengthen PBSA Strategy with new investment in Milan

Ardian

Ardian, a world-leading private investment house, and Rockfield Real Estate, a vertically integrated living platform, consolidate their position in the student living sector with a new investment in Milan as part of their pan-European strategy dedicated to Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). They have signed a preliminary purchase agreement to acquire shares in a corporate vehicle backed by Blue Noble, an international real estate investment manager, and Hines, a global firm specialized in real estate investment, development, and management.

This transaction concerns aparto Milan Durando, a complex located on Via Giovanni Durando, in the Bovisa district, just a short walk from the Politecnico di Milano campus. It marks the fifth deal closed by Ardian and Rockfield in just six months since the launch of their European PBSA strategy. With four more deals in advanced stages across France, Spain, and the Netherlands set to be completed within the next two months, the European platform will have a total of 5,000 beds available.

The property consists of two buildings with approximately 610 beds. The first building, operational from January 2025, has already achieved nearly 100% occupancy, while the second one will be completed by September of this year. The entire complex, managed by aparto – Hines’ management platform for purpose-built student accomodation – offers a high-quality, sustainable living experience tailored to the needs of students, demonstrating how careful and innovative management can significantly contribute to the long-term value and attractiveness of the asset. The asset offers a rich program of activities and services designed to empower young talent communities and foster their connection with the city’s urban and social fabric.

Accommodation options include studio apartments with private kitchens and bathrooms, single rooms with private bathrooms in shared apartments, and double rooms with shared kitchens and bathrooms. In addition, the complex features numerous common areas, such as a lounge, cinema room, gym, yoga room, study areas, laundry facilities, and reception, all designed to encourage socialization and wellness.

Around 40% of the housing units are regulated and offer subsidized rents to address the growing demand for more affordable accommodation.

The student residence aims to achieve LEED Gold certification and features an EPC A energy class, reinforcing Ardian and Rockfield’s commitment to environmental and social sustainability and energy efficiency.

The property is strategically located and well connected to the center of Milan and is served by the Milano Bovisa FS railway station. The area will be further enhanced by the future North Interquartier Metrotramway, with completion expected by 2026.

Bovisa district is emerging as a rapidly growing area, thanks to the Politecnico di Milano campus, the Bovisa Technology Park, numerous start-ups, green spaces, and a growing network of services, making it one of the most dynamic hubs for the student community.

“This investment represents a strategic step in our long-term European vision dedicated to Purpose-Built Student Accommodation, a rapidly growing sector that is increasingly central to urban transformation. With this acquisition in Milan, we complete our fifth investment in facilities located in international university cities, with the aim of offering modern, sustainable, and high-quality housing solutions designed to meet the needs of new generations. For us, investing in student housing means contributing to the development of more inclusive, innovative, and green cities, by providing students with spaces that are not only functional but also stimulating and environmentally conscious”. Rodolfo Petrosino, Head of Real Estate Southern Europe and Senior Managing Director, Ardian

“Milan continues to establish itself as one of the leading university hubs in Europe, with over 200,000 students enrolled in the 2023/2024 academic year, including a growing share of non-resident and international students. Despite the growing number of students, Milan is one of the European cities with the lowest supply of available housing. This structural gap makes Milan one of the cities with the greatest investment opportunities. Our new investment, located in the heart of the Bovisa district facing the Politecnico university campus, directly addresses this need by offering approximately 610 beds in a modern facility that is seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric. The first building, already operational since January 2025, has reached nearly 100% occupancy within the first few months, confirming the strong market interest. This development not only enhances a fast-growing area but also helps strengthen Milan’s strategic role on the European student housing map”. Matteo Minardi, Head of Real Estate Italy and Managing Director, Ardian

“Ardian and Rockfield’s strategy is to create a diversified portfolio of high-quality assets, across continental Europe. The demand for student housing in Milan is in high demand and short supply driven by a growing student population. This acquisition perfectly fits our strategy of targeting acquisitions and forward-funding opportunities of best-in-class PBSA schemes. This acquisition underlines our clear ambition to become a leading player in the in the PBSA sector across Italy and southern Europe”. Juan Manuel Acosta, CIO Rockfield Real Estate

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 19 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.

ardian.com

ABOUT ROCKFIELD REAL ESTATE

Rockfield was established in 2014 with a clear mission to create high quality and sustainable housing solutions for students, young professionals and families in urban areas. Our founders recognized the growing demand for affordable housing in major cities, coupled with an increasing need for innovative living concepts that not only provide a place to live but also enable residents to grow and thrive within a community.
With this vision in mind, Rockfield started a journey to build a fully integrated real estate company. From the start, we chose to keep all aspects of real estate management in-house, from project development and acquisition to investment and property management. This approach has allowed us to offer tailored solutions that meet needs of both investors and tenants.
Since our inception, we have experienced impressive growth and evolved into a leading investment manager with a portfolio of over €2 billion in assets under management and around 8,000 housing units across various European cities.

rockfield.nl

Media Contacts

ARDIAN

HEADLAND

ardian@headlandconsultancy.com

ROCKFIELD REAL ESTATE

Sander van Essen

Sander.van.essen@rockfield.nl

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