Sovereign Capital supports new investment in Training Provider STL

Sovereign Capital, the UK private equity buy-and-build specialist, has completed the buy-out of STL, the leading regional provider of apprenticeship and adult learning, for an undisclosed sum.

Established in Sheffield and with a regional network of offices serving Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and South Yorkshire, STL employs over 170 people. The company provides apprenticeship training to help young people aged 16 to 24 wishing to pursue work-based learning find suitable employment opportunities. It also helps employers to find the right candidates to fill their vacancies. The service is delivered through a highly successful regional delivery model.

In addition, STL has secured a number of regional contracts for the delivery of the Government's new Train to Gain employer training initiative in the East and West Midlands, Yorkshire and Humberside, the North East and North West.

The total funding comprises equity to finance the buy-out and to enable STL to takes its services from a regional to national level. Debt has been provided by HSBC.

Principal shareholders Adrian Holmes, Managing Director and Michelle Rigby, Operations Director will continue to manage STL and retain a stake in the business.  Adrian originally set up STL in Sheffield over 20 years ago.

Simon Hitchcock, Director, Sovereign Capital says:

"We are delighted to have supported the acquisition of STL, which is a first class training provider with strength and depth of management. STL are well poised for further growth and we are fully committed to investing in this business and the excellent market opportunity."

Adrian Holmes, Managing Director, STL, explains:

"STL is an ambitious business that has a proven track record of delivering high quality apprenticeship learning and consistent growth.  Sovereign Capital has significant experience of working in the education and training sector and we are pleased to be working with them to take the business on to its next stage of growth. The new financial structure provides us with the opportunity to significantly develop the business through acquisition and continued organic growth."