10 May 2017
Terra Firma has today announced a financing transaction with SportGroup, a global leader in the manufacture of artificial turf systems and synthetic floor coverings owned by Equistone Partners Europe. This will be the first support capital investment by Terra Firma. This investment provides an alternative to an equity co-investment and, through the deal, Terra Firma will work with Equistone in supporting SportGroup’s growth plans.
Andrew Géczy, CEO, Terra Firma said:
“This is a significant deal for Terra Firma, one of Europe’s leading alternative investment firms. SportGroup is a strong company with a proven track record and we look forward to supporting its owner, Equistone Partners Europe over the coming years.”
Michael H. Bork, Member of the European Management Board, Equistone Partners, said:
“Under our ownership SportGroup has expanded from €280m in sales to almost €500m organically and by more than 5 acquisitions including Astroturf. It is our goal to further increase SportGroup’s international reach and we believe Terra Firma will be a great partner in helping SportGroup achieve this strategic objective going forward.”
Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP acted as legal adviser to Terra Firma and Shearman & Sterling LLP acted as legal adviser to Equistone on the deal.
For more information:
Nicola McGowan
Finsbury
+44 (0)20 7251 3801
terrafirma@finsbury.com