Data management business Node4 looks to expand after Midlands-funded MBO
A MIDLAND-based data management group is targeting growth after a management buyout funded and advised in the region.
Node4, based in Derby, provides a wide range of data centre and managed IT services, including colocation, connectivity, managed hosting, communications & hosted telephony, and a range of cloud services, to a UK-wide network of around 700 fast-growing SME customers.
Established in 2004, the business operates four state-of-the-art data centre facilities – two in Derby, one in Northampton and a further site in Leeds – which all offer the latest in technology and security measures, ensuring that even the most mission-critical IT applications are hosted securely and protected.
The undisclosed deal was led by LDC in the Midlands with strong supported from the region’s professional services.
The deal was led by LDC’s Regional Managing Director Martin Draper, together with Investment Directors Andy Lyndon and James Robinson. Mr Draper will join the Node4 board with immediate effect.
KPMG provided financial and tax due diligence, with Browne Jacobson acting as legal adviser to LDC and Newco. The vendors were advised by PwC Corporate Finance and Pinsent Masons. The Structured Finance team at RBS Birmingham provided a package of senior debt plus growth capex facilities to support the buyout, and were advised by Eversheds.
Mr Draper said: “Node4 is a well-established market leading regional data centre services business, operating in a rapidly growing market that is being driven by a growing demand for hosted IT services by SMEs across the UK.
“We are partnering with a high-quality management team led by Andrew Gilbert, who has considerable knowledge and experience in the regional data centre services market having founded the business back in 2004. The company provides a high-end service to its regional customer base, and is supported by a well invested infrastructure. Going forward, we will work closely with the team to execute the next phase of the business’ growth and development.”
