Arrowpoint Advisory has advised Ecolab on the disposal of Holchem to Kersia, an international biosecurity and food safety company backed by French private equity firm, Ardian.
Holchem is a UK leader in detergents, disinfection and biosecurity solutions, generating its revenue mainly in the food and beverage sectors and is also active in the food service, retail and institutional sectors and dairy farming. Holchem achieved c.£47m of revenue in 2019 out of its two UK manufacturing facilities, both of which supply mainly the UK and Irish markets. Following the acquisition, the combined Holchem and Kersia Group will generate >€300m revenue, with 1500 employees and 18 worldwide manufacturing plants.
Ecolab acquired Holchem in December 2018 subject to clearance by the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), with the CMA ultimately ruling against the acquisition. The divestment of Holchem reiterates Arrowpoint Advisory’s position as the advisor of choice for listed companies on UK transactions.
Stuart Middleton, Managing Director of Holchem, commented: “It was a pleasure to work with Graham, Tom, and the rest of the Arrowpoint team; their commercial and technical knowledge was invaluable. They were friendly, hugely supportive and a committed partner in getting the team at Holchem through what was at times a difficult and complex process.”
Graham Carberry, Arrowpoint Advisory MD, added: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to work with Ecolab, a true global leader, and with the entire team at Holchem who have done an extraordinary job supporting the UK’s critical food manufacturing and food retail supply chain at such an important time, all while going through a transaction process.”
Tom Smith, Director at Arrowpoint, concluded: “It has been a pleasure working with the Ecolab and Holchem teams and we are pleased that Holchem has found a good home with Kersia.”
