Dow Schofield Watts Transaction Services completed 17 deals in the seven months to the end of July 2016, reflecting private equity platform investment, bolt-on and exit activity in addition to work with acquisitive corporates.
Ed Brentnall, Partner with Dow Schofield Watts Transaction Services in the North West, commented on the post-EU referendum period:
“The initial signs are that companies which were already committed to a deal have gone through with it, in fact, four of our current year deals were completed in the wake of the referendum.
“The initial signs are that companies which were already committed to a deal have gone through with it, in fact, four of our current year deals were completed in the wake of the referendum.
“The litmus test will be whether deals at an early stage, or vendors and investors considering an exit or investment will proceed or wait for improved market clarity.
We are, however, seeing continued interest from foreign buyers. The acquisition of Waterfall Catering Group by a French buyer was one example and we have also had discussions with others seeking UK targets. Ultimately, sound businesses with growth prospects and a dynamic management team will always be attractive to the right buyer.”
The team advised on transactions including:
- The sale of Waterfall Catering Group to Paris-based Elior Group SA. DSW TS acted for Waterfall and LDC.
- The £5m investment in digital car retailer Rockar by Maven and NVM.
- Beech Tree Private Equity’s investment in Fluent Money Group, the UK’s largest online secured loans broker.
- The MBO of Giacom World Networks, the Hull-based cloud IT and communications solutions provider, backed by LDC.
- The investment by Mobeus Equity Partners in Redline Security.
- Stroma Group’s bolt-on acquisitions of building control firms BBS Group and Approved Design Ltd
Team set for further growth
As our transaction services teams across the North continue to expand, we are always on the look-out for fresh talent. If you are seeking a career with a friendly, dynamic and fast-growing team, we’d love to hear from you! For opportunities in the North West call Nicky Merritt on 01928 370048 or for Yorkshire & The North East call Rob McCarthy on 0113 3970902.