UK’s largest private crematorium and cemetery firm sold in private equity deal
Westerleigh Group, the UK’s biggest private crematorium and cemetery operator, is being acquired by global alternative asset manager ICG for an undisclosed sum.
ICG’s European Infrastructure team will buy the business, based at Westerleigh, near Bristol, from Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan and Universities Superannuation Scheme, which have jointly owned it since 2016.
The company operates 42 crematoria across England, Scotland and Wales and describes itself as the UK’s largest developer of new crematoria, having opened 21 sites since 2016.
Debbie Smith, chief executive of Westerleigh Group, said the firm’s priority had always been to provide exceptional care to the families and communities it served.
“ICG Infra shares our commitment to investing in our people, facilities and services, and brings a long-term perspective that aligns closely with our ambitions,” she added.
“We are grateful to Ontario Teachers’ and USS for their partnership and support since 2016, which has helped strengthen and grow the business.
“We look forward to working with ICG Infra as we continue investing in our network and developing new locations, in response to the resilient demand for our services across the UK.”
Under the outgoing owners, Westerleigh has invested in its SuperVenue concept, which the company says enables families to create more personalised funeral services, and developed a cremation funeral plan offering.
ICG Infra will partner with Westerleigh’s existing management team to support continued investment across the network and development of new locations.
Ludovic Laforge, managing director at ICG European Infrastructure, said: “Westerleigh provides an essential service to communities across the UK and has established a leading and highly reputable network of social infrastructure assets. We are very happy to partner with the Company and its management team.”
The transaction follows the €3.15bn close of ICG Infra’s second fund in 2025.
Completion remains subject to regulatory approvals and is expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
