Debrett’s Launches Investment Vehicle Aimed At UK SMEs

Debrett’s has announced the launch of a £30m equity vehicle which is being supported by high- net-worth investors who share Debrett’s’ vision for investing in UK SMEs led by ambitious management teams.

Investments will be in deals of up to £15m in value and will offer an alternative to traditional private equity. There will be much flexibility with deal structures and investment timelines, with long-term holds preferred.

Separately, Debrett’s remains committed to its advisory practice and will continue to advise on larger deals.

Partnering with Debrett’s and overseeing this initiative is Simon Freer. Simon has over 20 years’ of investment experience. Formerly Chief Commercial Officer of Liberty Global Investments and Head of Technology, Media and Telecoms at 3i.

“I am delighted to be involved in this initiative in partnership with Debrett’s and our ultimate HNW backers. We passionately believe there is a role for ‘private wealth’ in backing UK SMEs and generating significant shareholder value. I look forward to working closely with the team”, commented Freer.

Darryl Eales, Chairman of Debrett’s, added, “this is an exciting and transformative partnership for Debrett’s and I look forward to working with Simon, for whom I have the greatest respect.

I share his passion for regional mid-market Private Equity and it is my first foray into investing 3rd party funds since I left my role as CEO of LDC a decade ago.
I hope that we can build on this initial partnership and attract other likeminded investors to support our Debrett’s strategy to invest in ambitious SME businesses and management teams which are the heartbeat of the UK’s economy.”