When it comes to maximising the potential of the UK’s small and medium-sized companies, two of the most misunderstood words in business are also two of the most empowering. “Private” and “equity”.
Yes, there have been stories that tarnished the industry. Southern Cross care homes and Debenhams department stores were high-profile examples of irresponsible investment that painted a picture of debt-happy, asset-stripping PE opportunists. But there are far more inspiring PE stories that don’t make the headlines, where the prospects of undervalued and underperforming companies have been transformed, producing exceptional returns for investors. In fact, the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association suggests that PE supported almost 1,500 businesses across the country in 2023.
With long-term ambitions, access to new markets and a carefully-constructed