UK’s Perwyn Buys 15–20% of French Software Platform SoftNext - InforCapital

UK-based private equity firm Perwyn is set to acquire a minority stake of 15–20% in French software group SoftNext, the digital arm of Groupe Baelen, in a transaction valuing the company at approximately €465 million.

The deal follows a competitive fundraising process, where Perwyn emerged as the preferred investor, according to sources familiar with the matter. A formal announcement is expected as early as next week.

Founded in 2017 through the acquisition of Cogilog, SoftNext consolidates Groupe Baelen’s software and technology assets under one platform. Led by CEO Jérémie Vinant, the company specializes in B2B software solutions spanning eight verticals including real estate, telecom, leisure, and healthcare.

Since its inception, SoftNext has carried out around 40 acquisitions and has built a robust presence in the French tech ecosystem. The fresh capital from Perwyn is expected to accelerate SoftNext’s international expansion, particularly in Europe and North America.

This move is part of a broader trend where private equity firms are increasingly targeting minority stakes in high-growth European software firms. Notably, Hg Capital recently took a minority position in Nordic software firm Visma, and EQT Growth invested in German SaaS provider HiveTech earlier this year.

Perwyn’s involvement is anticipated to bring both strategic guidance and financial firepower, enabling SoftNext to scale its M&A-driven growth strategy while reinforcing its leadership in the B2B software space.