Kneip, a service provider to the asset management industry, has repurchased all shares held by private equity firm 3i, following strong growth for the group during the last three years.
3i first invested for a significant minority stake in Kneip during May 2007 to help increase the company’s service offering and expand its geographical reach.
Over the last three years Kneip has launched new offices in London and Paris, attracting customers across both regions.
In addition, Kneip has made three acquisitions. In 2009 it purchased La Cote Bleue in Paris, a press agency and supplier of fund listings to the French media. Also in 2009, Kneip acquired the assets of web development company Akiraweb to strengthen its capabilities in technological development and research, as well as Luxemburg-based fund publication specialist Lombard Fund Services.
During the last three years, Kneip has grown its business internationally, with staff numbers rising from 130 to 170 employees across UK, France, Switzerland and Luxembourg, providing services in 54 countries and on the internet across the globe.
Bob Kneip, chief executive of Kneip, says: “In spite of the extremely challenging environment of the last 18 months, Kneip has grown its revenue, customer service and geographic presence. 3i has been a supportive partner during the last three years and we look forward to continuing to build the business over the coming years.”
Pieter De Jong (pictured), 3i partner based in the Benelux, adds: “3i has been proud to lend its expertise and international contacts to assist the geographical expansion and growth of Kneip, to reach its position today as the leading European service provider to the global asset management industry.”
