Francisco Partners, a leading global investment firm that specializes in partnering with technology businesses, yesterday announced the all-cash acquisition of Blancco Technology Group, for 223 pence per share, representing an equity valuation of approximately £175 million. As a result of the completion of the transaction, Blancco has ceased trading and is no longer listed on the London stock market.
With over 2,500 customers served across 70 countries, Blancco is a market leader in secure data erasure and mobile lifecycle solutions. The Company’s products allow organizations to protect end-of-life data against unauthorized access, safely redeploy data storage assets, and firmly comply with increased data protection and privacy requirements.
Rothschild & Co served as financial adviser and Travers Smith LLP acted as legal adviser to Blancco. Canaccord Genuity served as financial adviser and Ropes & Gray International LLP acted as legal adviser to Francisco Partners.
Matt Jones, Chief Executive Officer, Blancco
Since its founding 26 years ago, Blancco has created and delivered innovative solutions, with a focus on building a world class data eraser and diagnostic software platform. We are pleased to partner with Francisco Partners, who are committed to continuing to build upon the company’s strong foundation and achieve its full potential. I want to thank each employee for their dedication to Blancco and contributing to our continued success.
Brian Decker, Partner, Francisco Partners, and Karl Shum, Principal, Francisco Partners
We have been very impressed with the leading market position that Blancco has established through its best-in-class solutions and are thrilled to partner with Blancco’s management team to drive the next phase of expansion.
Ravi Bhatt, Vice President, Francisco Partners
Sustainability and e-waste reduction are increasing strategic priorities for customers of all sizes globally, and we see tremendous organic and inorganic growth opportunities for Blancco worldwide.
