LDC Backs Kick ICT for UK Growth: Strategic Investment Unveiled

06 Jan, 2024

LDC, a private equity investor affiliated with Lloyds Banking Group, has made a substantial investment in Kick ICT, Scotland's leading independent IT managed service provider, as part of its strategic expansion across the UK. This move marks a successful exit for growth capital investor BGF, a supporter of Kick ICT since 2021.

Situated in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire, Kick ICT specializes in providing essential IT managed, communications, and digital transformation services to a diverse clientele of over 1,000 customers across various sectors. With a workforce of over 170 employees, the company focuses on business and finance solutions from Microsoft and Infor, coupled with contemporary infrastructure, cloud services, and IT support.

Established in 2015, Kick ICT has experienced rapid growth through an ambitious acquisitive strategy. In November 2023, it added to its portfolio with the acquisition of Dundee-based C2 Software Limited, expanding its Microsoft Dynamics offerings nationwide.

LDC's investment aims to propel Kick ICT's UK-wide growth through further strategic acquisitions, targeting businesses that complement its services in Scotland and the North of England. The firm is providing support to Kick ICT's existing management team, led by CEO Tom O’Hara and Group Sales Director Alan Turnbull, both boasting over 30 years of industry experience, with Geoff Neville continuing as Chairman.

LDC's Investment Directors Lee Donaldson and Aaron Lawson-Clark, along with Investment Manager Emma Borrie, led the investment. Tom O’Hara, Kick ICT's CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with LDC, citing their hands-on experience in aiding businesses like theirs in expansion.

Lee Donaldson, Investment Director at LDC in Scotland, highlighted Kick ICT's role in the rapidly evolving digital landscape, positioning them for growth in the UK ICT sector. LDC has a commendable track record in the ICT sector, making over 20 investments totaling £1.4bn since 2012.

Kick ICT received advisory support from Anderson Anderson & Brown (AAB) for Corporate Finance and MBM Commercial for legal matters. LDC sought advice from PWC for Corporate Finance and Tax, Pinsent Masons for legal guidance, BDO for Financial Due Diligence, and Armstrong for Commercial Due Diligence.

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