Personnel Checks buys Manchester screening firm

A Lancashire-based background screening provider has expanded its footprint after acquiring a Manchester industry peer in a six-figure deal.

Personnel Checks Ltd has purchased Know Your Candidate Ltd (KYC), adding around 2000 SME clients to its customer base and strengthening its ability to deliver compliance and vetting services to UK employers.

Founded more than 20 years ago and based in Blackburn, Personnel Checks provides background screening services to organisations nationwide, processing more than 150,000 DBS checks each year. 

The business has grown by more than 300 per cent over the past five years and employs more than 40 people across the UK.

Bosses say the deal helps Personnel Checks establish a new operational base in Manchester and broadens the company’s service offering.

They add that KYC will continue to operate as a standalone brand, while its customers gain access to additional screening services and Personnel Checks’ technology platform for managing vetting and compliance processes.

Jack Mellor, chief executive of Personnel Checks, said: “This is a really exciting and pivotal moment in the history of Personnel Checks. 

“Over the past few years, we’ve invested heavily in building our own screening technology platform, and that investment has driven strong year-on-year growth.

“As we looked at how to maintain that momentum, it became clear that a growth-by-acquisition strategy would be the right next step. 

“When we began speaking with the team at KYC, it was clear we were closely aligned, not just in terms of the customers we serve, but also in our approach and values.

“This is our first acquisition, and I’m incredibly pleased to welcome the KYC team and their customers into the business. 

“It’s a strong strategic fit and a great foundation for what comes next.”

Barry Hetherington, founder of KYC, added: “When I started Know Your Candidate, I wanted to create a screening service that worked properly for SMEs: straightforward, transparent and without unnecessary complexity. 

“Over the years, that’s exactly what we’ve built.

“Choosing the right home for the next chapter was incredibly important to me. 

“Personnel Checks share those same principles around customer service and clarity. 

“Its commitment to transparent pricing and accessible support mirrors what we’ve always stood for at KYC. 

“I’m confident this is the right decision for our customers and for the long-term future of the service.”

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