Software firm 2i Testing has secured an “eight-figure” private equity funding deal and now plans to more than double its turnover through acquisitions.
Edinburgh-based 2I has secured the funding from London-based private equity firm Rockpool Investments to grow its work helping organisations to roll out complex new IT systems
2i already has more than 200 staff across the UK with clients including the Home Office, Virgin Money, Abrdn and the Scottish Government’s Social Security Directorate. Rapid organic growth in recent years has seen it grow to a turnover of more than £20m.
Dave Kelly, who moved from managing director to CEO in 2022, says Rockpool’s cash injection will allow 2i to explore acquisition opportunities.
He said: “We are absolutely delighted with this investment from Rockpool who we believe are the perfect partner to help us on the next stage of our growth journey. Their support and expertise will help us to further develop our service offerings and identify acquisition opportunities to support our aim of becoming the premier quality engineering company in the UK.”
Rockpool provides funding of between £5m to £15m to UK-based private companies and has invested over £675m since its launch.
Its investment was led by Guy Nieuwenhuys and Will Beckett.
Mr Nieuwenhuys, investment director at Rockpool, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Dave Kelly and the 2i team as they continue their strong organic growth and embark on a buy and build journey.
“We have been impressed by their proactive investment in talented people and automation products. The business is highly innovative and takes a strategic partner approach to working with its clients. Increased digital change poses a huge risk to organisations as system failures can lead to significant financial and reputational issues for companies and their senior executives.
“2i is well-placed to support, through its focus on high-quality delivery and client service”.
Paul Winterflood from MKS Corporate Finance, which supported 2i during the investment process, said: “Rockpool’s investment in 2i is a fantastic partnership for all concerned. It has been a pleasure to work with Dave and the rest of the team on this transaction and I look forward to following 2i go from strength-to-strength on the next stage of their growth journey with Rockpool’s support.”
Rockpool was advised by Stephenson Harwood (Legal), Saffery (Financial & Tax), Palladium Digital (Technology), Continuum (Organisational) and Claritas (Tax Structuring). 2i was advised by Moore Kingston Smith (Corporate Finance & Tax) and Bird & Bird (Legal).
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