On the face of the economy getting back on track and confidence being on the up, it is essential to point out the important role that private equity plays in supporting the growth prospects of British businesses.

We are happy to share this ongoing goal, of highlighting the positive impact of private equity on local businesses, with the British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA). As official sponsors of the BVCA National Dinner Series 2015, we are looking forward to sponsoring another successful evening in the dynamic North West. Held in Manchester this event is designed to bring together regional Private Equity (PE) Investors, Advisors and Management Teams. We are hosting a table of CEOs and Chairmen of private equity-backed businesses in the region with the aim to help enhance investor-management team relations.

The North West region is key to the UK’s PE and venture capital (VC) industry, representing over 9% of the UK’s private investment (BVCA Report).

The region attracts a high concentration of investment due to its tradition of mid-sized businesses, its vibrant manufacturing industry and it being ‘home’ to the powerful cities of Manchester and Birmingham.

Venture Capital and Private Equity investments in the North West have assisted regional development with approximately 200 businesses being backed, employing over 40,000 people and an approximate total of £2.5bn invested.

According to data published by the Centre for Management Buyout Research (CMBOR), the North West’s private equity buyout market was one of the UK’s most active in 2013, with 34 deals. In the same year, London was only a fraction ahead with 38 deals.

The area continues to be one of the top performing regions in the UK as it provides a fertile place for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. So far, 2015 has recorded a significant volume of deals in the region with key private equity transactions and an increase in IPO activity.

Some of the deals include:

  • The sale of WHP Group from Key Capital to Palatine private equity, for £16m;
  • The acquisition of Total Fitness by private equity firm NorthEdge Capital for £11.5m;
  • The £60m management buyout of marketing & design firm, Adare by Endless Private Equity;
  • The £2.35b IPO of online car retailer, AutoTrader by Apax Partners. 

As confidence in the economy keeps growing, we expect to see an equally strong performance in the second half of 2015 as private equity continues to support growth in businesses in the UK.

The North West Dinner will take place on the 10th September 2015 in Manchester. 

If you are a CEO/Chairman of a local business and would like to join us on our table, please don’t hesitate to contact us on events@marblehillpartners.com