Fera Science Limited (Fera), a leading provider of expert laboratory and field-based services in the agriculture, food, and environment sectors, is thrilled to announce a new chapter in its growth journey with Bridgepoint Development Capital IV ("BDC" IV) becoming a strategic partner. The partnership comes as part of BDC IV's acquisition of Capita's 75% stake in Fera, valuing the company at £80 million.

Established in 2015 as a joint venture between Capita (75%) and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) (25%), Fera has played a vital role in providing assurance, applied research, proficiency testing, and data services to both public and private sectors. This aligns seamlessly with Bridgepoint's mission of supporting European-focused businesses, providing them with a competitive edge and outstanding growth potential.

As part of the transaction, Defra will maintain its 25% shareholding, while Bridgepoint Development Capital IV (Bridgepoint) assumes a central role in Fera’s strategic growth plans. Beyond financial investment, Bridgepoint will actively contribute to Fera's board, providing valuable advice, expertise, and experience with the addition of Matt Legg and Michael Towers from Bridgepoint joining Fera's board of directors, bringing a wealth of experience to enhance the strategic direction of the company.

Dr Andrew Swift, Chief Executive Officer of Fera, expressed enthusiasm about the new chapter, stating:
“Capita, Defra, and Fera have partnered effectively over the last eight years, to help us grow and professionalise the business within the UK. We are excited for this next chapter, and the prospect of engaging with Bridgepoint as our new partner for our next phase of growth and development. We look forward to leveraging Bridgepoint’s international network, expertise, and resources to support Fera’s next phase of growth and expansion.”

Matt Legg, Partner at Bridgepoint Development Capital, emphasised the significance of Fera's expertise in a rapidly evolving global landscape,
“Fera is recognised as the UK’s authority and a leading global expert in these areas, thanks to its differentiated scientific capabilities, well-invested facilities, and deep expertise. We look forward to working with the management team to scale the business both domestically and internationally, including by investing in the business to maintain its cutting-edge scientific leadership and via M&A.”

Bridgepoint, with more than 20 years of experience, draws on its industrial, commercial, and local expertise to responsibly invest in companies with strong market positions and outstanding growth potential. The partnership with Fera aligns with Bridgepoint's commitment to identifying and partnering with likeminded management teams to accelerate organic growth, pursue strategic acquisitions, and drive operational best practices.

"Our unparalleled networks, sector expertise, local presence, and international reach support our partner companies as they grow their market share, enter new markets, and seek to make selective acquisitions," Legg added, emphasising the depth and breadth of insight Bridgepoint brings to the collaboration.

Bridgepoint's experienced and international team, combined with its substantial presence in portfolio companies, provides valuable insights that will be instrumental in driving Fera's growth strategy. As Fera embarks on its journey with Bridgepoint, the collaboration aims to unlock the true potential of the company. Leveraging Bridgepoint's international network, sector expertise, and operational efficiency, the partnership is poised to support Fera's growth and expansion both domestically and internationally. This alliance underscores the shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth in the dynamic landscape of testing, inspection, and certification markets.