List of 3 buy-and-build private equity funds from the UK [2023]

Buy-and-build strategies in the UK involve acquiring a platform company and then adding smaller companies to create a larger and more efficient operation. This approach is particularly prevalent in fragmented markets with many small operators.
In this article, we are introducing three interesting buy-and-build-focused private equity funds from our keyword crawler-based buy-and-build-private equity investors list.

1. Penta Capital LLP (London)

Penta Capital LLP is a private equity fund management business that specializes in mid-market investments. The firm, which is headquartered in London and has a registered office in Glasgow, was established in 1999. Their deal sizes range between £5 million and £200 million. Penta Capital is known for its involvement in ‘buy-and-build’ transactions, where it supports companies in growth through acquisitions. In 2013, Penta Capital invested in Global Risk Partners Limited, which focuses on UK insurance broking and MGAs. By 2020, they had acquired 60 businesses, making them a leading independent insurance broker in the UK. This investment provided a 3.3x return for investors.

2. Duke Street LLP (London)

Duke Street LLP is a London-based private equity firm. In the past 25 years, they have invested over €3 billion in 50+ companies, achieving returns over 25% IRR throughout the cycle. Duke Street executed a significant buy-and-build deal with the acquisition of COMPO, a top European producer and distributor of consumer gardening products such as soil, fertilizer, plant protection, and lawn seeds. COMPO, previously owned by Kingenta Ecological Engineering Group Co. Ltd, is headquartered in Münster, Germany. Duke Street supported the company’s management team, led by CEO Stephan Engster, in their efforts to strengthen COMPO’s position in the European market.

3. Maven Capital Partners UK LLP (London)

Maven Capital Partners UK LLP, based in London, is a leading private equity and property management firm. It was established in 2009 after a management buyout of Aberdeen Asset Management PLC’s private equity business. Since then, Maven has become one of the UK’s most active investors in SMEs. Maven Capital Partners supports management teams with their buy-and-build strategy, helping them make strategic decisions such as identifying potential acquisitions and navigating the complex M&A landscape. The focus is on long-term partnerships.

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