Record Year for Gordons’ Private Equity Practice Despite Market Uncertainty
Monday 20th February 2017
Yorkshire law firm Gordons’ private equity practice experienced a record 12 months and is currently experiencing a strong start to 2017, as investors continue to look for opportunities in high-quality businesses.
The team, led by head of corporate James Fawcett, advised on a number of multi-million pound transactions in the last year, including advising YFM Equity Partners, the specialist private equity fund manager, on its £2.75m investment in Sipsynergy, a cloud collaboration solutions provider to SMEs.
Gordons also advised the management of pet food manufacturer MPM Products on the sale of a majority stake to ECI Partners, one of the most high profile deals in the North West last year, as well as Enact, the dedicated SME fund managed by Endless, on its investment in Kesslers International in 2016, and on the recent £32.9m sale of Excelsior Technologies to Mondi Group.
Speaking about the team’s success, James Fawcett, said: “The last 12 months were very successful for our private equity practice and indicate the importance both our private equity clients and management teams place on the pragmatic advice we provide.
“We had a great mix of transactions in the last 12 months and were able to demonstrate our versatility and expertise, which has further enhanced our relationships with private equity houses and private investors investing in SMEs and entrepreneurial businesses in Yorkshire and beyond.
“Despite market uncertainty, the deals we have been involved in during the last 12 months indicate a clear appetite for investment in SMEs and entrepreneurial businesses. The trend looks set to continue as we have already experienced a strong start to 2017 and are looking forward to another positive year ahead.”
Other standout transactions included advising Leeds digital sports brand Pitchero on its £3.1m investment from global fund manager ICM, as well as advising IETG Group – the Yorkshire-based water and wastewater specialist – on its management buy-out from its US parent company, backed by Bentley O-S, both of which were led by partner Jonathan Asquez.
Gordons has offices in Leeds and Bradford and employs 196 people. Clients include retailers B&M, Iceland and Morrisons; construction and high performance materials manufacturer Saint Gobain; international brewers Molson Coors; and the world’s largest electrical heating business Glen Dimplex. For further information on the firm visit www.gordonsllp.com.
