12/12/2018 - News

Clearwater International UK advises on the MBO of We Are Discounts

Clearwater International UK has advised on the management buy-out of We Are Discounts Limited ('WAD'), a provider of closed-end member schemes that offers discounts from a wide variety of brand partners to its members. The deal was supported by debt and working capital facilities from Muzinich and Natwest.

Founded in 2000, WAD has grown to become one of the UK's leading providers of discounts to employees in the health, social care, education, and charity sectors. WAD has a strong and sustainable network of more than 300 brand partners with a broad offering across numerous sectors, including financial services, retail & fashion, travel, utilities and wellbeing.

The investment will allow WAD to continue to focus on growing its member base and brand partner network. The company has already begun to replicate the success of its Healthcare Service Discounts scheme in other key public sector groups who make a significant contribution to society. The investment will also help the business to continue to invest in its technology platform, with a particular focus on strengthening its omni-channel marketing strategy, underpinned by sophisticated analytics capabilities.

The Clearwater International team spanned M&A and Debt Advisory services, comprising of Partners Marcus Archer and Chris Smith, Directors Lachlan Dorrity and Mark Maunsell, Associate Directors Hertej Rattan and Stephen Nemeth, and Senior Associate Kirsty Handley.

Marcus Archer, Partner and International Head of Business Services, said: “We’re delighted to have advised on the management buy-out of We Are Discounts. The business has seen significant growth in recent years, thanks in part to its digital-first model, and we wish the team continued success following this investment.”

Chris Smith, Debt Advisory Partner, added: “We continue to see interest from private equity for outsourcing their debt raising and refinancing projects to support transactions. Our dedicated team provides pragmatic advice by drawing on their knowledge of market dynamics. We pride ourselves on putting in place an appropriate debt structure to best suit our clients strategic ambitions.”

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