Leading mid-market private equity firm LDC has exited its investment in ID card printer and software business Magicard to listed international manufacturer Brady Corporation (BRC).
LDC invested in Magicard in May 2016 to support the business’ organic and international growth strategy. During LDC’s partnership with Magicard, the business invested heavily in new product development, releasing six innovative new products in the last two years alone. It has also further developed its printing software capabilities with patent protected IP.
With LDC’s support, the business, which was founded in 1992, expanded internationally, shipping tens of thousands of printers from its UK headquarters and manufacturing centre in Weymouth to more than 100 countries each year. Over 100,000 Magicard printers have now been installed worldwide.
Milwaukee-headquartered Brady Corporation is an international manufacturer and marketer of complete solutions that identify and protect people, products and places. Brady’s products help customers increase safety, security, productivity and performance and include high-performance labels, signs, safety devices, printing systems and software.
Ian Cliffe, CEO of Magicard, says: “Over the last several years, we expanded and enhanced Magicard’s new product development and manufacturing capabilities, and we’ve broadened our portfolio of high quality, versatile, secure printing solutions. The sale of Magicard to a market leader in printing and material solutions such as Brady presents an excellent opportunity for long-term profitable growth for our business.
“LDC’s support has been crucial to deliver our international growth strategy. They have enabled us to stay ahead of our competitors, helping us to continue to invest in innovative new products and solutions which attract international demand.”
Aylesh Patel, Investment Director at LDC, adds: “During our partnership, Magicard has enhanced its market-leading position in the UK and overseas by developing best-in-class printing solutions. Its innovative products are trusted by many of the world’s most security conscious organisations. Brady Corporation’s sector expertise and global network will provide Magicard with the perfect platform to further its international expansion plans.”
LDC and Magicard were advised by Duff & Phelps (Corporate Finance), BDO (Financial Due Diligence) and CMS (Legal).
