Succession buyout at Laser2000

PEM were appointed by the founding shareholders to oversee the succession buyout process.

Since 1992, Laser2000 has developed close relationships with the best photonics, optics, telecoms and network product manufacturers around the world. Driven by in-depth knowledge of optics and photonics, the company has been actively involved in the application of many world-changing technologies with its customers delivering projects such as the roll-out of fibre optic broadband, protection of the natural environment and furthering understanding of the human genome.

Good communications around a large group of participants was important. We worked with the management team to understand their individual aspirations for the transaction, and also spoke to all the members of the large group of shareholders who acquired shares in the buyout.

The transaction saw a new company formed to acquire Laser2000’s existing holding company, part funded by debt from Santander. This allowed the Vendors to reduce their holdings, and change their roles in the business while extending ownership more widely amongst other key employees.

Legal advice for this success process was provided by Mike Matthews and Joanne Sinclair of Roythornes Solicitors and Andrew Cooper of Greene & Greene Solicitors. Funding was provided by Santander’s Growth Capital team.