EA-RS Group, a provider of intelligent, sustainable, and compliant fire and security systems and services, today announces the completion of a refinancing package from Ares Management Credit Funds and Barclays Bank.
The senior debt package will provide EA-RS, backed by private equity sponsor Rockpool Investments, with significant capital to deploy into both identified and future acquisitions. Following investment from Rockpool at the start of 2021, the Group has since successfully acquired and integrated eight companies. EA-RS Group will continue to develop their ‘One Solution’ offering, furthering their growth and geographic reach through acquisition.
Guy Ellis, Investment Partner at Rockpool Investments, said, “The refinancing, with support from Ares, enables EA-RS Group to continue to deliver on their ambitious buy and build strategy. EA-RS has achieved impressive organic and inorganic growth since our investment in 2021 and this financing package signals the start of the next exciting chapter in the company’s journey to become one of the largest independent fire and security groups in the UK.”
Michael Dennis, Partner and Co-Head of European Credit at Ares, said, “Under a strong management team led by the Founder, Alan Wheal, and Rockpool’s partnership, we regard EA-RS as a compelling platform for future growth, both organically and through M&A. We are delighted to be working with the EA-RS team and to be providing continued support for its proven buy-and-build strategy as they enter their next phase of growth.”
David Culpan, Managing Partner at MDW Capital, said, “With the Group’s impressive growth expectations, selecting funding partners and facilities that could match these expectations and give EA-RS Group the firepower it needs was critical to the success of this financing. The facilities put in place perfectly position EA-RS to capitalise on the opportunities in the market and drive its continued success. It was great to work with such a high calibre team.”
EA-RS appointed MDW Capital as advisers on the transaction. Legal support was provided by Taylor Wessing and Macfarlanes LLP. Financial due diligence was provided by BDO. Commercial due diligence was provided by CIL.
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