Investment heavyweights launch private equity firm targeting regional SMEs
Investment professionals Rob Freer and David Newton have launched NewHall Capital, an independent, owner managed private equity firm with the aim of providing equity funding for companies in the Midlands to grow and create jobs.
Managing director Freer has more than 30 years corporate finance and private equity experience, having previously held senior positions at NorthEdge Capital, Royal Bank Private Equity, Lloyds Banking Group, EY and Deloitte.
He most recently set up and managed the Midlands office of NorthEdge Capital where he was responsible for originating and executing a number of successful investments.
He is joined by David Newton who has previously worked as a corporate financier for EY, investment banks Williams de Broe, Seymour Pierce, XCAP Securities (where he was head of corporate finance) and the Midlands-based corporate finance boutique Cattaneo. He has been the CEO of an AIM listed business and the FD of a number of SME companies.
NewHall Capital says it seeks to address the significant regional imbalances in the supply of SME equity finance that has “historically favoured London and the North of England”.
The firm is now seeking investment opportunities with an enterprise value of up to £10m and is predominantly focused on funding scenarios including management buyouts, equity release, shareholder recapitalisations and development capital transactions.
Freer said: “The SME sector in the Midlands has been underserved for too long. Despite the uncertainty caused by the government’s ongoing coronavirus lockdown, local businesses are keen for investment to grow their businesses, delivering on their existing plans or accelerating new opportunities. Therefore, I am delighted to say that we are firmly open for business and looking to secure as many quality opportunities as possible. We have been delighted to the response to our launch and are already reviewing a number of exciting opportunities.”
Newton added: “Everyone at NewHall Capital is passionate about supporting business in the Midlands and its neighbouring areas. We strongly believe that when it comes to investment, regional businesses want to work with a local partner they can build strong relationships with. Our supportive, straight forward approach, professional experience, and shared alignment provides the confidence that businesses need to invest and fulfil their financial, operational and strategic objectives. We look forward to working with like-minded passionate companies as we build value together.”
