Business & Technology Services
Headquartered in Brussels, ABX is a global freight company offering air and sea freight forwarding services globally and international road transport in Europe. It also provides Contract Logistics Solutions in Europe. ABX has a particularly strong presence in Western and Southern Europe, and has a leading position in Italy under the name of Saima Avandero. It also operates an extensive network in Asia-Pacific and in the Americas.
At exit in 2008, ABX operated in 100 countries worldwide, had revenues of €1.8bn, and a workforce of c.6,500 people.
“We have enjoyed a very positive and productive partnership with 3i, who believed early in ABX and its management, and supported us in the transition to our current business model.” Laurent Levaux, CEO, ABX Logistics Worldwide
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Benelux.
Consumer
Amor is a customer focused jewellery retailer which successfully expanded internationally during our ownership. It operates throughout Europe, as well as North America, the Middle East and Australia, and is the German market leader for affordable precious jewellery. In addition to its own 'Amor' brand, it also markets its jewellery under private labels.
We leveraged our network to strengthen the Board, introducing Peter Linzbach, former Executive Board member of Metro Cash & Carry Int., as Chairman and Anders Moberg, former CEO of IKEA, as NXD.
Amor has undertaken a transformational journey over the past six years, and I would like to thank 3i for its partnership. 3i’s international network has proved invaluable in establishing our brand across Europe. Marcus Hoffmann, CEO, Amor
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Germany.
Industrial Technology
Aspen Pumps designs, manufactures and distributes specialised mini pumps that remove condensate water from air conditioning and refrigeration systems. It is the global leader for mini pumps and is renowned for having the most reliable, installer friendly and innovative products. Additionally, it sells a range of products for air conditioning installers and engineers.
During our ownership, Aspen built on its market leading position, further penetrating international markets in Europe, the Americas and Asia leading to a trebling of its international revenues.
“Working with 3i, it was clear from the start that they really understood the business, had significant experience in our sector and brought a great deal of energy and enthusiasm. They have been a fantastic partner, supporting us on the development of our strategy, our acquisitions and on expanding our global footprint.” Adrian Thompson, Chief Executive, Aspen Pumps
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc.
Industrial Technology
ATESTEO is a German-based global leader in outsourced automotive testing, with a focus on testing drivetrains for electric and conventional propulsion systems in the lab and on the road. ATESTEO’s services ensure that the vehicles of their customers, including some of the world’s pre-eminent automotive manufacturers and suppliers, are safe, reliable and fit-for-purpose.
ATESTEO differentiates itself through testing technology, engineering expertise, flexibility, and economies of scale. We acquired a majority stake in ATESTEO in October 2013 and achieved a 4.4x return on exit in December 2017.
"The 3i team has been a huge support in helping us to advance our international expansion and expand our footprint into growth markets such as China.” Wolfgang Schmitz, CEO, ATESTEO
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Germany.
Consumer
Basic-Fit is the European market leader in the value-for-money fitness market with over 560 clubs across the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France and Spain today. Its operating model is based on a quality service and no frills approach, with family membership costing €19.99 per month. Clubs are well equipped, offer virtual group classes and 24 hour opening in some venues.
Basic-Fit’s disciplined international growth strategy under 3i’s ownership was underpinned by investment in the organisation and key consumer trends of spending polarisation and the increasing focus on health and wellness. Alongside this, significant investment was made to professionalise the business including a review of the brand and the format of the clubs.
"I would like to thank 3i for its close support which has been critical to delivering rapid and sustainable growth and achieving the company’s international ambitions." René Moos, CEO, Basic-Fit
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Benelux.
Business & Technology Services
Civica is a leading software provider which significantly expanded its international presence and key product offering during our investment. Following our investment in 2008, through a public to private transaction, Civica continued its strong track record of organic growth in revenue and EBITDA, driven by a combination of sustained software sales from their market-leading product portfolio and the roll-out of cloud-based solutions in all markets. Further growth came from up-selling services to existing customers, including specialist outsourcing, such as its IT-enhanced BPO proposition.
“With 3i as a partner, we‘ve been able to strengthen the business as well as grow our footprint, both in the UK and internationally.” Simon Downing, CEO, Civica
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc.
Business & Technology Services
Element is a global network of laboratories with experts specialising in materials testing, product qualification testing and failure analysis for the Aerospace, Oil and Gas, Transportation and Industrial sectors. It transformed from a network of local, independent testing laboratories into a world class integrated testing business under our ownership.
The business was created as a carve-out from the Stork Group and rebranded as Element. Under our ownership it successfully delivered a buy-and-build growth strategy, enhanced sector testing capabilities, deepened customer relationships and expanded geographic coverage. Significant capital was invested to develop new testing technologies and support customer R&D programmes.
“I would like to thank 3i for their close support which has been critical to delivering the rapid and sustainable growth that we have achieved over the past five years.” Charles Noall, President and CEO, Element
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc.
Consumer
GANT is an international marketer and designer of premium branded apparel. On exit, GANT had over 300 stores and 4000 selected retailers in over 70 countries. GANT offers full ranges of clothing for men, women and children. In addition, GANT branded watches, footwear, eyewear, fragrances and home furnishings are designed and marketed by licensees. GANT partnered with 3i because of its sector expertise and presence of local offices backed by its international network.
"We are committed to further strengthening our position and building our brand through marketing, product development and geographical expansion. 3i was already an important partner in achieving this." Arthur Engel, CEO, GANT
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Sweden.
Industrial Technology
GEKA is a leading manufacturer of innovative brush applicator and packaging systems for the beauty and health industries. It is also a pioneer in the innovation of plastic injection moulding for mascara brushes and mascara packaging and is a development partner of market leading international cosmetics groups, including Procter & Gamble and Avon.
We partnered with management to successfully deliver international expansion particularly into Asia and Latin America; opened a production facility in São Paolo; set up sales and sourcing offices in Shanghai and Hong Kong; and successfully expanded production capabilities in the US. In 2014 GEKA launched its Healthcare division, leveraging its precise applicator know-how in the pharmaceutical space.
“GEKA has enjoyed exciting growth over the past years, and I would like to thank 3i for its value-adding partnership. 3i’s international expertise and network have been important factors in our successful expansion into new markets” Amaury de Menthière, CEO, GEKA
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Germany.
Industrial Technology
Hilite is a global supplier of leading automotive solutions, and innovative engine and transmission products. Through our ownership, it transformed from an ambitious and growing automotive business to a truly global leader in innovative products for improving fuel efficiency.
Together with the Board, we developed Hilite's internationalisation strategy, introduced a Chairman with strong global sector knowledge and an extensive network. We brought in two NXDs, one with US experience and the other with a Chinese focus, to help develop the Asian market. We also established a state of the art manufacturing plant in China in order to drive Asian sales and helped the development of a ‘one international Hilite’ culture which improved operating efficiency through best practice sharing.
“3i has supported us through a vital phase in our development. We’re now a more focused company with global presence, particularly in China.” Karl Hammer, CEO, Hilite International
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Germany.
Business & Technology Services
HSS is a leading UK tool and equipment rental chain. On exit HSS had c.300 branches and 150 agencies, and around 18% market share with a growing international presence through 44 franchises outlets.
"The measures we took in partnership with 3i delivered a leaner business and a much clearer line of sight on logistics - helping to ensure that we always had the right tool in the right place at the right time." Alan Peterson, former Chairman, HSS
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc.
Industrial Technology
A global producer and supplier of hydraulic cylinders for hydraulic loading and unloading systems for commercial vehicles. During our ownership, Hyva transformed from a Dutch-based business to a global market leader and tripled its turnover.
This significant internationalisation included an acceleration of capex, with eight factories built in BRIC markets, and the development of manufacturing, R&D and sales/service infrastructure in Europe, Asia and the Americas.
“I would like to thank 3i for their continuous support for our successful entrepreneurial and global growth in transforming a European, Dutch-based business into a truly global player with a market leading position in all the countries in which we operate." Louwrens Dijkstra, CEO, Hyva
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Benelux.
Business & Technology Services
Ineum is a former Deloitte Consulting business in France providing management, organisation and operational consulting. It is a leader in addressing CFOs’ specific needs through distinctive knowledge and independence from IT consulting / provider firms.
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i France.
Industrial Technology
Keolis is a leading urban and inter-urban transport operator. At the time of 3i’s exit in 2006, Keolis operated in seven countries including the UK, Sweden, Germany and Canada. It employed over 33,000 staff and had a turnover of €2.6bn.
“3i’s industry expertise and contacts helped us prioritise our plans, win major contracts in existing geographies such as Sweden and the UK, and evaluate new locations for growth. As a result, international growth was disciplined, quick and profitable.” Michel Bleitrach, CEO, Keolis
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i France.
Industrial Technology
Belgium-headquartered KINOLT was established in 1989. The Company designs, manufactures and maintains mission-critical dynamic uninterruptable power supply (“Dynamic UPS”) systems for top-tier customers in EMEA, the Americas and Asia Pacific through its worldwide network of 13 group companies complemented by a network of distributors.
During our investment, KINOLT saw significant international expansion through the success of its unique NO-BREAK KS® Dynamic UPS systems which ensure that its customers are protected from power supply failures. This is a mission-critical product for its customers, which include data centres, hospitals, airports, banks, road and railway tunnels.
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Benelux.
Healthcare
LHI Technology is a manufacturer of medical cables with offices in China, Singapore, the US, and Germany. The company’s complex products are used in challenging environments to provide real time information for patients; only a handful of players globally have this capability
During our ownership, the company evolved from a business focused predominantly on blood oxygen monitoring into one offering more technically demanding and higher performance products, including ECG and ultrasound cables and cables for surgical and video endoscopy applications, including ultrasound.
Working with management, we implemented several operational improvements, including increasing the company’s technical capabilities and optimising key costs.
“3i’s comprehensive knowledge and network in the healthcare industry gave LHi an increased scope and expansion possibilities that we never had before." Jay Pok, Founder, LHi Technology
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc, advised by 3i Singapore.