Wales Investment Fund Announces Major £3.5m Equity Deal
The £130m Investment Fund for Wales has secured its ninth and most substantial equity investment to date, marking a significant milestone in its mission to drive economic growth across the region. Managed by the British Business Bank with its equity component overseen by Foresight Group, the fund has committed £3.5m to industrial services and procurement specialist Advantiv, which operates from bases in Merthyr Tydfil and Pembroke Dock.
Strategic Investment for Expansion
Advantiv provides a comprehensive range of engineering products, technical site services, and procurement solutions, serving clients across commercial, industrial, and manufacturing sectors. The company positions itself as a one-stop shop for industrial supply and engineering support, catering to diverse market needs.
The substantial investment will enable Advantiv to:
- Open new locations across the UK
- Expand its workforce with high-caliber staff
- Invest in advanced systems, processes, and automation
- Strengthen its market position through strategic growth
Fund's Impact on Welsh Economy
Established by the British Business Bank to promote sustainable economic development, the Investment Fund for Wales has been instrumental in providing finance to small and medium-sized enterprises throughout Wales. Since its launch in November 2023, the fund has:
- Invested over £37m into 93 Welsh businesses
- Leveraged co-investment totaling £9.5m through combined debt and equity deals
- Supported diverse sectors with both equity and debt components managed by FW Capital and BCRS Business Loans
While the British Business Bank has not disclosed the remaining balance from the initial £50m equity funding pool, it confirmed that most of the £40m reserve held at launch has been released for further investment opportunities.
Leadership Perspectives on Growth
Andy Burgess, director at Advantiv, emphasized the transformative potential of this investment: This partnership with Foresight will accelerate our growth, increase employment, and return investment to the regions we serve. We plan to expand our UK presence while maintaining our high service standards, marking an exciting new chapter for our team and customers.
Phillip Sampson, principal of private equity at Foresight Group, highlighted the strategic rationale: We're proud to support Advantiv's growth plans. This investment demonstrates our commitment to backing profitable, established businesses with strong market positions, particularly where shareholder liquidity aligns with succession planning.
Bethan Bannister, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, celebrated the fund's achievements: This record £3.5m investment exemplifies how the Investment Fund for Wales is backing ambitious Welsh businesses to grow and compete. Over two years, we've invested £37m into 93 businesses, nurturing home-grown talent and driving sustainable economic growth across Wales.
