Eyes on Growth - June 2007
Investing and Realising
DNA Oy | Finland | Communications Investment
In its largest European deal to date, 3i has invested ¤140m for a 25% shareholding in Finnet Oy (to be renamed DNA Oy), a leading Finnish mobile operator.
DNA is one of the largest telecom operators in Finland, with 1,070,000 mobile subscribers. 3i’s Growth Capital investment will support the company in its transition into a national, full-service telecommunications group.
KNEIP | UK | Business Services Investment
3i has invested ¤37m in KNEIP, the Luxembourg-based outsourcing partner to the fund management industry to support the business through its next stages of growth.
The partnership of KNEIP and 3i will see 3i play an active role as the business increases its international presence, with an intention of KNEIP becoming the trusted supplier to large asset managers worldwide.
OOH Media | India | Consumer Investment
3i’s India team has invested US$4m in OOH Media, the largest outdoor CD TV Network in India.
3i provided pivotal support in the role of identifying the CEO, building the business plan, setting the technology tie-up with Focus Media and providing the initial capital. OOH Media currently has 2,000 screens and plans to develop an out of home network across India, with 10,000 screens.
Foster + Partners | UK | Business Services Investment
3i has recently made a significant minority investment into one of the world’s leading architecture businesses, Foster + Partners, in one of the largest deals completed by the UK team.
The Growth Capital investment will enable a step-change in Foster + Partners’ geographic expansion, has significantly expanded the shareholder base to include management and employees, and has facilitated the restructuring of the leadership team.
Smart and Cook | UK | Financial Services Realisation
3i has realised its stake in Smart and Cook, one of the UK’s leading independent commercial insurance brokers, as part of the sale of the company to AXA UK plc. 3i first invested in Smart & Cook in March 2004 and provided financial support to fund the company’s acquisition plan.
During the 3 years of our investment, 3i supported the company in acquiring 14 brokers, strengthening the senior management and board, and played a central role in negotiating the deal with AXA.
Clinica Baviera | Spain | Healthcare Realisation
3i invested ¤40m in Clinica Baviera, the leading provider of refractive laser surgery and other opthalmic treatments in Spain, to support growth through acquisition and the roll out of its clinics.
In April 2007, 3i supported Baviera through its IPO process. The company floated on the Spanish Stock Exchange in April 2007 with a market capitalisation of ¤300m.