Cawood teams up with NVM

Dec 22 2010 by Peter McCusker, The Journal

NEWCASTLE-BASED private equity firm NVM has invested £4m into the management buy-out of a Berkshire agricultural science firm.

Cawood Scientific is the UK’s largest independent provider of analytical laboratory testing services to land-based industries, with the investment designed to support its expansion across the UK and Europe.

It operates from two main facilities, NRM in Berkshire and Sciantec Analytical Services Limited in Yorkshire, both providing a “one-stop-shop” range of testing services for agricultural and environmental businesses.

Mauro Biagioni, who managed the deal alongside Peter Hodson for NVM, said: “Cawood is led by an established, successful and committed management team.

“They have a loyal customer base and increasing opportunities for new contracts across Europe. The team has developed a wide ranging growth strategy involving the introduction of new services to niche markets.

“This company represents an ideal investment for NVM and its funds.”

Nigel Patrick, managing director of Cawood Scientific, said: “Cawood is an exciting business to lead into the next stage of its growth and we are pleased to have NVM as a partner.”