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Enterprise Ventures achieves successful exit
22/01/2009
Enterprise Ventures has achieved a successful exit from its investment in H2O Networks Limited and has received 3.6 times its original investment, representing an IRR of 142%.
EV, via the Coalfields Enterprise Fund, first invested in H2O Networks in September 2006 to finance the company's growth plans, with a further round of investment provided in mid 2007 to support the company's further development.
North West based H2O Networks has revolutionised super fast connectivity including broadband to homes and businesses using its unique FS System to deploy fibre optic cable in the UK's waste water infrastructure. H2O can deliver fibre optic solutions that range from point to point networks to city wide infrastructures.
H2O's FS System means that fibre optic cables can be laid 80% faster than traditional methods of road digging which means that next generation networks can be built in a fraction of the time.
Richard Bamford, EV Executive Chairman, says, "On behalf of our client, we are extremely pleased to have achieved such an excellent outcome, which demonstrates that even during these very difficult recessionary times, there are high growth investment opportunities in the English regions".
Wayne Thomas, EV Investment Director for the deal, commented, "Since EV initially invested in H2O Networks, the business has grown significantly thanks in no small measure to the drive and commitment of its management team. Successful investments often depend on backing the right team with the right idea. With the assistance of EV, the team has built a solid platform from which to grow further. This has been a very successful investment for the Fund and we wish the team the best of luck for the future".
Elfed Thomas, CEO of H2O Networks, commented, "Over the last two years, H2O Networks has experienced exponential growth. Our tried and tested proposition has grown from a point to point fibre optic solution for businesses, to building town and city wide networks as seen in Dundee and Bournemouth, as well as international activities. This exit is the start of the next phase in the evolution of this company".
Legal advisors involved in the transaction were David Sefton of Laytons Solicitors, Manchester, who acted for EV, Nancy Kelsall of Addleshaws' Manchester office who acted for the company and Sharon Lamb of Capsticks, London who acted for the management team.
Submitted by Deborah Moon