Private equity firm makes £6m investment into training firm

Fuel Learning, the Swadlincote provider of management, leadership and team development programmes and initiatives, has landed a £6m investment deal from Key Capital Partners (KCP).

Founded in 2009, Fuel Learning develops personalised learning programmes for global companies such as Adidas, Kellogg’s and Nissan.

Fuel Learning’s Ian Prentice said: “With their in-depth knowledge of the training sector, KCP quickly gained an understanding of our business model. They provide support at a very senior level with highly experienced partners working closely with the business to help deliver our growth ambition.”

The deal was overseen by Jay Singh, KBS corporate finance director.

Richard Stocks, senior research analyst at KBS who managed the sale’s outreach process, said: “Fuel Learning has a strong client base, significant new contract wins and is benefitting from rapid growth.

“Ian Prentice, CEO of Fuel Learning, was very much open to options when exploring a sale. While we had strong trade interest in the opportunity, the preferred choice for the shareholders soon became the chance to stay with Fuel Learning and ensure they were part of, and benefited from, the growth new contract wins will deliver in the coming years.”

Philip Duquenoy of KCP added: “We are delighted to partner with Fuel. The team’s focus on quality of training and client satisfaction permeates throughout and is core to the business’s success.”

Singh said: “The Fuel team have done well to develop the business to where it is today. With support from KCP, they will undoubtedly build on this success with ambitious growth plans.

“It was a pleasure to work with the management team and shareholders to deliver an excellent outcome for all parties.”