NVM aims towards £100m investment target

INVESTMENT firm NVM Private Equity (NVM) expects to invest £100m across the UK over the next two to three years.

NVM typically invests £2m-£10m in companies looking to grow organically, acquire another business or finance a change of ownership through a management buyout.

In August NVM’s three Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) launched a joint £50m share offer to bolster the firms funds which has so far raised around £25m. This will be complemented by returns from other investments.

 This year NVM’s northern investment team, led by Andy Leach and Mauro Biagioni, has invested £10m in Nelson-based Buoyant Upholstery and Cleveland Biotech in Stockton-on-Tees. They expect to invest a further £20m next year.

Mauro Biagioni, who covers Yorkshire and the North East, said: “We typically take a place on the board of the businesses we invest in, so the initial deal is often just the start. Our aim is to offer advice and, if necessary, incremental funding to bring the company’s growth strategy to fruition.

“We are in it for the long-term, so our relationship with a management team and our understanding of their business is crucial to a successful partnership. With our interests aligned with those of management, we will both work to maximise the potential of the business and see it grow. Successful investment in SMEs will only be achieved by backing businesses with the potential to deliver tangible growth.”