Unifiedpost has completed a management buyout. The deal was supported by FRP Corporate Finance, who provided corporate finance and debt advisory services to the new owners.
Based in Whitefield, Unifiedpost specialises in digitising and automating the distribution of business documents and communications, as well as physical and print postal services. The group has an extensive client base covering sectors including automotive, financial services, pensions and local government.
Originally established in Belgium in 2001, Unifiedpost was since owned by its Belgian parent, Banqup Group. However, as Banqup looks to rationalise its portfolio by divesting non-core services to focus on digital services, the opportunity arose for the firm to gain its independence.
Managing director, Mark Hetem, has therefore acquired the UK arm of the business for an undisclosed amount. Under the new ownership structure, the £6 million turnover firm plans to pursue growth across the UK and Europe and expand its service offering.
Hetem commented, “This marks an exciting new chapter for our team and business. The buyout allows us to continue delivering exceptional service to our customers while expanding our offering and client base.”
Kuits Solicitors provided buy side legal advice and Claritas Tax provided financial due diligence. Meanwhile, FRP Corporate Finance’s Manchester team – led by partner Daniel Brecker, manager Amy Murphy and graduate trainee Tom Parsons – was appointed by the MBO team to provide corporate finance and debt advisory services. This included sourcing a funding partner, negotiating terms and managing the transaction through due diligence, valuation and deal structuring.
Speaking on the services of FRP Advisory, Hetem noted that the team had led Unifiedpost to Allica Bank, “a funding partner that immediately understood our vision”. As a result of this, as well as a “continued partnership with Banqup”, he believes the firm is “well-positioned to offer UK businesses the best of both digital and traditional postal solutions”.
Brecker added, “The postal and document services sector is undergoing significant transformation, with demand growing for digital-first solutions alongside a continuing need for physical delivery. Unifiedpost UK is a strong example of a business embracing this hybrid model. The management buyout creates a platform for future growth and innovation across UK and European markets.”