Charterhouse Capital Partners

Charterhouse Capital Partners is one of Europe's longest-established private equity firms, focusing on mid-market European companies. The firm employs a selective, conviction-led investment approach, partnering with ambitious management teams to drive transformational change. Their investment strategy targets transactions typically ranging from €150 million to €1.5 billion, with a primary focus on the services and healthcare sectors. They are committed to a growth-focused approach, often sourcing attractive investment opportunities proactively to facilitate operational improvement, digitalization, and international expansion.

The firm's heritage dates back to 1934, when it was established as the first investor in unquoted securities in the UK. Charterhouse pioneered the leveraged buyout industry in Europe, completing its inaugural leveraged buyout transaction in 1982. In 2001, the firm's management completed a buyout from HSBC, establishing Charterhouse as an employee-owned independent firm. Over its extensive history, Charterhouse has raised numerous funds, with its latest being Charterhouse Capital Partners XI in 2022, and has returned over €24 billion in proceeds to investors.

Charterhouse Capital Partners has a diverse portfolio of investments across Europe. Notable past and present portfolio companies include Sagemcom, a global provider of high-end connected terminals and software; Cooper, a pan-European drug manufacturer and distributor; and Casa Optima, a global manufacturer of ingredients for artisanal gelato, cakes, and pastries. Recent investments include Winback, a French medtech company, and Animalcare Group, a pharmaceutical company. The firm has also been involved in significant transactions such as the acquisition and subsequent sale of Wood Mackenzie, Deb Group, Card Factory, ERM, and Webhelp, demonstrating a track record of successful exits and value creation.

The firm operates with an experienced and accomplished international team of approximately 65 professionals, including 17 partners and 35 investment professionals. This dedicated in-house team provides direct support to management teams and the investment team, specializing in areas such as onboarding, operational improvement, strategic repositioning, digitalization, and internationalization. Charterhouse's collaborative approach leverages the collective skills and knowledge of its team to build successful businesses over the long term.