Overview of the Deal
- Acquirer: Exponent Private Equity
- Target: Kingsbridge Healthcare Group (KHG)
- Total Transaction Size: Approximately £300 million
- Announcement Date: July 9, 2024
- Expected Close Date: Not specified
- Target Advisors: Not publicly disclosed
- Acquirer Advisors: Not publicly disclosed
On July 9, 4, Exponent, a leading European private equity firm, announced its agreement to invest in Kingsbridge Healthcare Group (KHG), a premier private healthcare provider operating across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This strategic investment, reportedly valued at approximately £300 million, marks Exponent’s first foray into Northern Ireland’s healthcare sector and its eighth platform investment on the island of Ireland.
Founded in 2004, KHG has expanded its services to include four hospitals and eleven medical centers located in Belfast, Ballykelly, and Sligo. The group offers a comprehensive range of medical treatments and surgical services, supported by a team of over 1,100 professionals and more than 400 medical consultants.
Following the completion of the transaction, KHG’s co-founders, Dr. Suresh Tharma and Mr. Ashok Songra, will retain a significant stake in the company. Dr. Tharma is set to assume the role of Chairman of KHG’s Board, while the existing management team, led by Chief Executive Mark Regan, will continue to oversee operations.
Company Details (Acquirer – Exponent Private Equity)
Exponent Private Equity is a prominent investment firm specializing in partnering with management teams to create market-leading businesses. Established in 2004 and headquartered in London, Exponent focuses on primary investment opportunities across selected sectors, applying an integrated operational model to drive revenue growth and value creation. To date, Exponent has raised more than €3 billion and has made significant investments in Ireland, including companies such as H&MV, Ethos Engineering, and Chanelle Pharma.
- Founded: 2004
- Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
- Assets Under Management: Over €3 billion
- Recent Transactions:
- Acquisition of Chanelle Pharma (March 4)
- Investment in Ethos Engineering (May 4)
Company Details (Target – Kingsbridge Healthcare Group)
Kingsbridge Healthcare Group is a leading private healthcare provider offering a wide array of medical treatments and services in surgery and diagnostics. Operating from four hospitals and eleven medical centers across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, KHG has demonstrated a consistent track record of expanding its capacity and clinical capabilities through acquisitions, capital investments, and new site developments.
- Founded: 2004
- Headquarters: Belfast, Northern Ireland
- CEO: Mark Regan
- Number of Employees: Over 1,100
- Number of Medical Consultants: Over 400
Projections and Assumptions
Short-Term Consequences
Exponent’s investment is poised to provide KHG with the capital and strategic support necessary to scale its operations and enhance its service offerings. The partnership aims to address the growing demand for accessible and technologically advanced healthcare services across the island of Ireland.
Long-Term Upsides
With Exponent’s backing, KHG is expected to pursue further expansion initiatives, including potential acquisitions and the development of new facilities. The investment underscores Exponent’s commitment to partnering with founder-owned businesses and is anticipated to strengthen KHG’s position as a leading private healthcare provider in the region.
Risks and Uncertainties
While the investment presents significant growth opportunities, potential risks include integration challenges associated with scaling operations, maintaining the quality of patient care amid rapid expansion, and navigating regulatory changes within the healthcare sector. Additionally, economic fluctuations and shifts in healthcare funding could impact the group’s financial performance.
Sources
- https://www.exponentpe.com/Exponent-announces-investment-in-Kingsbridge-Healthcare-Group
- https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/business/northern-ireland/belfast-based-kingsbridge-private-healthcare-group-sold/a1128357125.html
- https://www.insidermedia.com/news/ireland/private-healthcare-investment-wins-deal-of-the-month
- https://www.whitecase.com/news/press-release/white-case-advises-exponent-kingsbridge-healthcare-group-investment
- https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/private-equity-exponent-has-deal-making-down-to-a-fine-art-rtbvhmnw2
