Mergers & Acquisitions in October 2018

October 2018 saw a total of 210 M&A deals complete across the UK, a significant increase on the 125 deals which completed in September. This surge in M&A activity, which can be seen across most major sectors, indicates an increase in buyer activity, as well as company sales, as the year comes to a close.

 

The total deal value completed in October across the UK was £12.9bn.

 

One of the highest value deals which completed saw the acquisition of Rowan Companies plc, by Ensco plc, an offshore drilling specialist, for £1.8bn.

 

Another high value deal which completed in October was the £1.7bn acquisition of Virgin Money Holdings (UK) plc, by CYBG plc, a UK based banking services holding company.

 

Within the law sector, Ince & Co International LLP was acquired by Gordon Dadds Group plc, in a deal worth £34m.  Adrian Biles, Managing Partner at Gordon Dadds commented, “Ince is a highly successful and well-respected business with an iconic brand and I will be delighted to welcome our new colleagues to the Group. The merger will build upon the complementary strengths of the two firms in terms of industry expertise and range of services. Our management model will also allow Ince’s partners and fee earners to focus even more on providing market leading legal advice to a stellar client base.”

 

The fire and security sector was also highly active, with MITIE Group acquiring Vision Security Group Ltd, for £14m, and Edesix Ltd acquiring Vigilant Solutions Inc.

 

Whilst customer engagement data processing company, Rapide Communication Ltd, was acquired by Upland Software Inc, a Software-as-a-Service provider, in a deal worth £50m.

 

Overall, a wide range of sectors saw activity this month, with a significant number of high-value deals completing. The interest in UK companies continues to come from both UK and overseas acquirers, with trade buyers and private equity investors making acquisitions.

 

It is opportune to gain a company valuation now, so you can begin evaluating your exit strategy options before the New Year.

 

Our team are highly experienced within company valuations and M&A, and can help you to understand the value of your company, whether your intention is to consider your exit strategy options or explore another avenue.

 

Please feel free to call the team on 0203 441 2003.

 

Alternatively, you can use our online valuation calculator which will provide you with your company valuation.