Acquisition sees Warrington’s Mini-Cam valued at £85m

Private equity firm LDC has sold pipeline inspection system business Mini-Cam in deal that has valued the North West business at up to £85m.

Warrington-based Mini-Cam was backed by LDC during a management buyout in July 2015, which gave the firm additional funding to accelerate its international growth strategy.

Under LDC, Mini-Cam expanded its operations from one site to three, including a new research and development facility in Austria. Its headcount rose from 37 employees to over 50.

Following the acquisition by tech group Halma plc, the company will continue to design, manufacture and distribute robust modular pipeline inspection systems for sectors including water, oil and gas, petrochemical, nuclear, security, engineering and construction.

LDC investment director Chris Wright and head of North West Jonathan Bell led on the transaction.

Chris Wright said: “Since we backed Mini-Cam just over two years ago, Nigel and his team have invested heavily in research and development and Mini-Cam is now one of the few UK-based pipeline inspection manufacturers that has successfully penetrated international markets.

“As part of the Halma group, the business will be able to build on these solid foundations and is strategically positioned to embark on the next phase of its international growth strategy. We wish Nigel and the team the best of luck on their journey.”

Mini-Cam MD Nigel Wilson commented: “The strategic support and financial backing we’ve received from LDC throughout our partnership has helped us grow the business, both at home and overseas.

“With the team’s help, we have been able to continually invest in our operations, increasing production and service levels to meet the rising demand for innovative, high-tech inspection systems.”

He continued: “Moving forward with the Halma group will ensure we’re well-placed to continue providing high-quality products to an expanding international customer base, as well as giving our employees further opportunities as part of a major International group.”

LDC was advised on the exit deal by Clearwater International and DWF.