Testing firm sold to global group
Hinckley-based surface testing firm Microset has been sold in a cross-border deal to French counterpart Groupe SOCOMORE.
Microset, which has customers all over the world, was set up 40 years ago. The company specialises in a range of applications critical to assessing surface damage, finish, quality control of internal surfaces and dimensions, crack detection, and metallography. These solutions are particularly invaluable in sectors where traditional non-destructive testing (NDT) methods fall short, such as the notable underwater inspection of North Sea oil installations.
SOCOMORE designs, manufactures and markets specialist chemistry solutions for critical operations: preparation, treatment, protection, assembly and testing of metal surfaces or composite materials, mainly for the aerospace market. SOCOMORE has operations worldwide.
The deal enhances SOCOMORE’s NDT capabilities in the UK and solidifies its presence in the UK.
Adam and Guy Rollins, shareholders of Microset, said: “After four decades of pioneering work in replication technology, we are delighted that the Microset journey is continuing as part of the SOCOMORE family. We are confident that the expertise, vision and values championed by Frederic Lescure and the team at SOCOMORE will ensure a successful and productive new chapter for Microset and we anticipate both consistency and innovation for current and future customers under the care of this dynamic group.”
Frederic Lescure, CEO of SOCOMORE, added: “We are thrilled to welcome the Microset team into the SOCOMORE family. This strategic acquisition broadens our NDT solution range, enabling us to offer a more complete suite of products to our customers. It also solidifies our presence in the UK, aligning with our goal to improve local operations and customer support.”
Microset were advised on the deal by Springboard partner, James Bailey, and manager, Liam Bradney.
Bailey said: “Microset is a unique business with an incredible roster of global blue-chip customers and we are delighted to have helped Guy and Adam secure a successful exit. Having worked with them towards an exit over several years we identified a number of global players for whom Microset was a great fit. In SOCOMORE they have found a great strategic home where Microset will continue to go from strength to strength.”
The shareholders of Microset were also advised by Gareth Burge and Joe Rollins at Thursfields Solicitors (legal) and Iain Wright and Alex Hall at Claritas (tax).
SOCOMORE were supported by Caroline Carretta and Roger Cole at HK Law (legal).
Terms of the transaction are undisclosed.
