Our client has developed innovative next generation data capture software that is greatly ahead of the competition and selling successfully in the Exhibition and Trade Fair markets. Automatically uploaded to the cloud, data is instantly available in real-time to the customer for use, with sophisticated reporting, analytics and integration to client CRM applications.
Developed over a number of years for a small number of prestigious car manufacturers, the software enables users to easily collect and share customer data across multiple sites and databases and to present relevant analysis to various disciplines. One customer was able to quadruple the number of warm leads it logged and converted at one show alone.
Our client realised that their products have a much larger potential market, but to access this they needed much greater resources than they would otherwise be able to deploy. They approached us for help to fund this growth through the sale of a substantial share of the business.
From an investor’s point of view, here was an established company, with a good team and a developed product line that was already selling in niche markets, on the brink of rapid expansion. All that was needed was capital and, crucially, a guiding hand.
We advised our client on what investors look for in a business and helped them to present their strengths and communicate the opportunity. We maintained their focus on the process of “selling their business”.
We began seeking an investor in early January and by mid February they were in negotiations with the angel syndicate which made the investment in early April. Our client was initially seeking £250,000 for 25% of the equity. The investors felt that the company was underestimating its funding requirement and offered £400,000 for 43%, which the owners were happy to accept.
On first glance it did not appear to be the cheapest deal, but for the clients’ business, the long-term support these investors were able to offer and their understanding of the marketplace made it the best solution.
a note from the client…
Our experience of Beer & Young shows that they have invested the time to fully understand our business needs and financial circumstances. They have worked with us objectively to find the most appropriate outcome. We would recommend them to anyone who faces business and financial challenges. They will find the positive reassurance of experienced problem solving, leading to a carefully planned route forward.
Chairman
Data Caputure Solutions
