Bristow & Sutor

Established in 1977, Bristow & Sutor had grown from a family business into a highly-respected nationwide debt resolution company by the time Sovereign became involved. With the founder stepping back from day-to-day operations, the management team was keen to lead an MBO to further develop the business's service offering and client base.

Attracted by Sovereign's proven capability in Buy & Build and commitment to investing in quality, am MBO was completed in 2017 with a strategy to grow the business both organically and through strategic acquisitions, while investing significantly in technology to enhance both the service offering and user experience.

Two bolt-on acquisitions

Identified and appointed a highly experienced Non-Executive Chair and a CFO at the time of the MBO

Created the role of CTO and hired a strong candidate

Created an Advisory Board to focus supporting vulnerable debtors

Refreshed the brand and became an active participant in the sector's evolution

Transformed the business via a new operating platform and the use of data analytics

In partnership with Sovereign, Bristow & Sutor has made two strategic acquisitions: DRP and Credit Style. These acquisitions have transformed the Group's capabilities by adding private sector debt resolution services with comprehensive pre- and post-legal capabilities. The expanded service portfolio now enables Bristow & Sutor to offer end-to-end debt resolution solutions across both public and private sectors, and has increased their addressable market to £1bn in potential annual revenues.

There has also been significant investment in its technological infrastructure, enabling the business to develop a platform that integrates advanced data analytics, behavioural science insights, and sophisticated propensity-to-pay models to create highly personalised resolution solutions. The data-driven approach allows the company to identify vulnerable customers early and tailor interactions appropriately.

From its headquarters in Redditch, Worcestershire, the business now works with over 350 clients from across the public and private sectors, including National Highways, Transport for London and the Home Office. Our investment and support has transformed Bristow & Sutor from localised family business into an industry leader.