Sovereign Capital logo

Alcumus

Abstract shapes

During the six years that Sovereign backed Alcumus, the business grew from being a specialist COSHH, health and safety risk management services provider to become the UK market-leading provider of technology-enabled compliance, risk management and certification services.

Sector

Business & Technology Services


Status

Realised

Investment Date

2009 - 2015


Location

UK

Buy & Build

4

Visit website
image-broken
Compliance officer carrying out checks

Investment background

Sovereign originally created Alcumus through its investment in Sypol in 2009. In partnership with the management team, Sovereign outlined a strategy to acquire a specific range of complementary risk management businesses to extend the Group’s services to match customers' needs and deliver strong growth.

The growth story

Tick icon4 acquisitions 
Tick icon15 quarters of unbroken organic growth
Tick iconClient base grew from 600 to over 8,000 customers
Tick iconThe group worked with 35% of FTSE 100 companies at exit

Alcumus successfully integrated four bolt-on acquisitions identified by Sovereign:

  • Safety Management & Monitoring Services, a health & safety and environmental services provider
  • ISOQAR, one of the largest independent UKAS accredited Certification Bodies in the UK
  • Drury PSM, a leading health & safety and HR consultancy
  • Info Exchange, a compliance Software as a Service (SaaS) provider.

Some of the owners of these businesses wished to retire, whilst at the same time securing the long-term future of the business. Others were attracted by the opportunity to access new funding, new markets and to become part of a rapidly expanding group.

The management team successfully packaged the breadth of their combined services and achieved 15 quarters of unbroken organic growth. Alcumus had grown to become the UK market-leading provider of technology-enabled compliance risk management and certification services operating throughout the UK and via a global network.

The business had combined innovative technology with expert advice to support clients to manage their exposure to risk, comply with the latest legislation, improve business performance and encourage workforce engagement. The client base had grown from 600 to over 8,000 customers and the business worked with 35% of FTSE 100 companies.

image-broken
Open quote icon

Sovereign provided both significant investment and strategic support, enabling the business to successfully integrate and develop its technology-enabled service offering and provide clients with a truly holistic solution. It was a true partnership.

Martin Smith / CEO (2009 - 2017)Alcumus
Abstract shapes
Two business men shaking hands.

If you would like to know more, contact a member of the Sovereign team