The market for business services is large and diverse.  It’s expanding rapidly, driven by economic growth and the increasing prominence of outsourcing and offshoring, trends which are now supported by the accessibility of talent in Asia.

At 3i, we partner well-established operators globally, providing capital in Europe, Asia and the US.  The businesses we support operate within four broadly-defined sub-sectors:

• Blue collar services: Covering activities such as cleaning, security, repairs and maintenance, and facilities management.  We have considerable experience in the more mature UK market and are applying our knowledge across Europe, where outsourcing is being driven by changes in legislation and public sector practice.
• White collar services: From consultancy services through to training and process outsourcing, where successful operators use intellectual capital to build strong client relationships, a compelling brand positioning and a rounded product offering.
• Distribution: Specialist distributors who understand and adapt to clients’ needs can earn high returns in a market where ‘commoditised’ players face continuous pressure on margins.
• Rental: International expansion opportunities for businesses involved in the hire of equipment and other ‘non-consumables’, where they can achieve high levels of utilisation and charge for premium-level service.

3i is an attractive partner for these businesses due to our:

• established track record of investing across the services sector
• global network which enables us to support the creation of pan-continental operators
• access to experienced industrialists who are able to support entrepreneurial management teams.