Fibreactive

We’re pleased to have supported Fibreactive Limited (“Fibreactive”), a Swindon-based specialist manufacturer of fibre optic connectivity products, on its sale to discoverIE Group plc (“discoverIE”). Fibreactive supplies critical components to customers operating within energy transmission infrastructure, supporting the safe and reliable operation of essential networks worldwide.

Founded in 1997 by Stephen Clift, Fibreactive has established a strong reputation as a trusted supplier to globally recognised OEMs across the HVDC, HVAC and telecommunications markets. They design and manufacture highly engineered fibre optic systems used within high voltage energy applications, enabling the secure transmission of data in demanding operating environments. Its product portfolio includes high-voltage links, fibre optic cables and cable assemblies engineered to withstand both extreme electrical conditions and environmental exposure.

Fibreactive has been acquired by discoverIE, a FTSE 250 London Stock Exchange-listed international group of businesses focused on the design and manufacture of customised electronic components for industrial applications. The acquisition further strengthens discoverIE’s Magnetics and Controls division and enhances its exposure to attractive growth markets within energy infrastructure and telecommunications.

Our Corporate Finance team acted as the lead adviser to the shareholders of Fibreactive throughout this transaction. Working closely with the shareholders, we helped prepare the business for sale, identified and engaged with a targeted pool of acquirers, developed bespoke marketing materials to clearly articulate Fibreactive’s differentiated market position, and conducted a competitive sale process. We also led commercial negotiations, coordinated the due diligence workstreams, and managed the transaction through to successful completion.

The transaction provides Fibreactive with the backing of a larger international group that shares its focus on specialist engineered products and long-term customer relationships. With demand across energy transmission infrastructure continuing to grow, Fibreactive is well positioned to benefit from discoverIE’s global reach, resources and operational capabilities, supporting the next phase of its development while continuing to serve its customers worldwide.

Geraint McGrath, Partner at FRP Corporate Finance, said: “Following a highly competitive process, we are pleased to have delivered a transaction that enables Steve and Davina to achieve their personal objectives while securing an excellent long-term home for Fibreactive.

With energy infrastructure continuing to experience strong growth, discoverIE provides the ideal platform to support Fibreactive’s next phase of development. As part of discoverIE, the business will have the support and resources required to continue serving its customers and capitalise on the opportunities ahead. We are confident that the business, its employees and its customers will benefit from being part of the discoverIE Group.”

Stephen Clift, Founder of Fibreactive Limited, said: “Working with Geraint and Maisie at FRP has been a pleasure from start to finish. Both Davina and I appreciate their complete professionalism, advice and support while leading us through this complex process and it was all handled in a very friendly manner. They were completely approachable and hardworking. Their understanding of our business was crucial in securing the deal with discoverIE. We will indeed miss working with them.”

FRP Corporate Finance worked alongside the team at Gardner Leader led by Philip Humphreys, and Alan Barlow at Morris Owen. Burges Salmon acted for discoverIE.