Bridgepoint, a prominent European private equity firm, has acquired Dutch IT company Schuberg Philis in a deal valued at several hundred million euros. Founded in 2003, Schuberg Philis specializes in managed IT services for mission-critical applications, serving major clients like Rabobank, ING, and Heineken. The company also offers expertise in cloud computing, data management, software, and cybersecurity.

With Bridgepoint's support, Schuberg Philis aims to implement an ambitious growth strategy. Co-founder and CEO Gerwin Schuring emphasized that this partnership will enhance their European operations, facilitate investments in new technologies, and maintain their commitment to exceptional customer service and a people-first culture. Although the exact financial terms remain undisclosed, industry reports suggest the deal exceeds €500 million, given Schuberg Philis's annual revenue of approximately €130 million, with 80% being recurring.

Despite Bridgepoint's majority stake, existing shareholders, including the founders and management, retain significant ownership. Olivier van Riet Paap, a partner at Bridgepoint, praised Schuberg Philis as a leading IT services brand in the Netherlands, highlighting its strong market presence and technology-driven approach.

Initially, the founders—Schuring, Pim Berger, and Philip Dries—were not considering a sale, focusing instead on independent growth. However, when Berger expressed a desire to exit for health reasons, the team reconsidered their ownership structure. With Bridgepoint's backing, Schuberg Philis plans to expand into the Nordic, DACH (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), and UK markets, pursuing selective acquisitions to preserve its unique culture.

The advisory team for Bridgepoint included Lazard and Axeco for M&A, Bain & Company for commercial aspects, EY for financial and tax due diligence, and Crosslake for technology due diligence. Legal support was provided by A&O Shearman. Schuberg Philis was advised by Arma Partners for M&A, McKinsey & Company for commercial strategy, PwC for financial and tax due diligence, and Atlas for tax matters, with legal assistance from De Brauw.

This acquisition marks a significant step for both Bridgepoint and Schuberg Philis, positioning the latter for substantial growth in the competitive IT services landscape.