Marine engineering firm Avantis Group has secured a significant investment from funds advised by Leon Capital LLP, a London-based European private equity firm, to support its international expansion plans.
Investment Details
The Cardiff-based company provides specialist engineering services to the maritime and energy industries. The strategic investment will enable Avantis to pursue growth opportunities while maintaining operational control. Chief executive Thomas David, chairman Chris David, and the existing leadership team retain a controlling interest and operational control of the business, which they took over in 2022 following a management buy-out part-funded by the Development Bank of Wales.
Growth Plans
The raised capital will support organic growth initiatives, operational expansion, and strategic opportunities, including investment in staff, technical capability, and infrastructure. It will also facilitate expansion into digital infrastructure and defence markets.
Thomas David said: "This strategic investment marks an important milestone for Avantis Group. We were deliberate in selecting a partner that understands our industries and aligns with our long-term vision. This capital strengthens our platform and enables us to pursue growth opportunities while maintaining the independence and culture that define our company."
Investor Confidence
Christos Lavidas and Jean-Christophe Napoleon Bonaparte, managing partners at Leon Capital, commented: "Tom and the team have built a truly differentiated specialist engineering platform, centred around client trust, as well as technical and delivery excellence. We are particularly excited to help the company grow its leadership position in green technologies and life cycle management services, as well as its further expansion into digital infrastructure and defence."
Leon Capital was supported by its senior advisor network, including Henrik Madsen (former CEO of DNV), Bjarte Boe (former head of shipping finance at SEB), and Michael Lavidas (former managing director of Alpha Gas).
Advisory and Exit
Leanna Davies, portfolio development manager for the Development Bank of Wales, said: "Having been part of Avantis Group's journey, I am proud of what the business has achieved and confident in its future. This investment from Leon Capital provides strong support for the next phase of growth, and we leave the business with a successful exit knowing it is in excellent hands."
The transaction was advised by Acuity Law, Reed Smith, Blake Morgan, and AMA Capital Partners. The terms of the investment were not disclosed.
