Element
- Sector Services and Software
- Year invested 2010
- Location UK
- Status Realised
Element is a global network of laboratories with experts specialising in materials testing, product qualification testing and failure analysis for the Aerospace, Oil and Gas, Transportation and Industrial sectors. It transformed from a network of local, independent testing laboratories into a world class integrated testing business under our ownership.
Visit element.com
Overview
The business was created as a carve-out from the Stork Group and rebranded as Element. Under our ownership it successfully delivered a buy-and-build growth strategy, enhanced sector testing capabilities, deepened customer relationships and expanded geographic coverage. Significant capital was invested to develop new testing technologies and support customer R&D programmes.
How we added value
- Transformed from a corporate subsidiary to a global leader in materials testing
- 51 world class facilities across three continents covering three core sectors
- Doubled number of staff and labs
- Completed and integrated 10 acquisitions
- Developed sector-focused approach
- Rolled out a new pricing strategy across all labs
I would like to thank 3i for their close support which has been critical to delivering the rapid and sustainable growth that we have achieved over the past five years.
Track record
Element
Ad Verkuyten, Non-Executive Director of Element, describes how 3i’s sector expertise led to the transformation of Element.
Regulatory information
This transaction involved a recommendation of 3i Investments plc.