FRP Corporate Finance advises on sale of B2B e-commerce specialist

Devon-based B2B e-commerce specialist, GOb2b, has been acquired by national software and payments business ClearCourse in a deal supported by our Corporate Finance team.

GOb2b, which is headquartered in Kingsbridge, is a software company that specialises in integrating b2b e-commerce into client platforms. The business provides its customers with digital solutions tailored to support transactions and help manage high volumes of stock, pricing options and card payments. GOb2b serves a wide range of clients, including Viessmann Direct, a business partner of Viessmann UK, supplying high-efficiency heating and renewable energy systems, tyre specialist, Yokohama, and consumer products group, Viatek.

With more than 20 years’ experience behind it, the company has now been acquired by ClearCourse, a payment software solution provider which provides support to over 20,000 UK-based customers. ClearCourse is backed by private investment firm Aquiline.

The deal will allow GOb2b and its employees to benefit from access to ClearCourse’ well-established networks and additional resources, while ClearCourse will now be able sell its payments solution to GOb2b’s customer base, presenting a growth opportunity for both businesses.

Former CEO Paul Dorey will remain involved with GOb2b on a consultancy basis as the business continues to deliver on its growth plan with the support of ClearCourse.

Our Reading team, led by Partner Simon Davies, Director Richard Boyden and Senior Manager Madhavi Morjaria, was appointed by GOb2b to advise on its sale. The team marketed the business to a targeted audience of potential buyers, before ClearCourse emerged as the leading candidate. We then managed negotiations, securing a positive outcome for both parties.

Simon Davies, Partner at FRP Corporate Finance, said: “GOb2b has built a robust customer base which has exciting growth potential, thanks to its ability to seamlessly onboard new customers while nurturing its existing relationships. With this in mind, it was no surprise that there was a high level of interest in acquiring the business.

“In ClearCourse, it has found a partner that has the experience and resources to allow it to continue to expand while delivering the high-quality service it is known for. I look forward to seeing both businesses grow together in the coming years.”

Paul Dorey, CEO of GOb2b, said: “We turned to FRP Corporate Finance because of their sector expertise, and Simon and the team delivered to a high standard. Once we decided to sell, the team provided invaluable support in identifying a buyer that will allow GOb2b and our employees to continue to thrive.

“Both businesses have a strong, complementary product offering that offers exciting potential for integration. Our focus now is on making the most of these synergies to propel us on the next phase of our growth journey.”

“I don’t believe that this deal would have happened without the support of Simon and his team to guide us through the process and I would not hesitate in recommending them to any entrepreneur in a similar position.”