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FourNet, mbo, management buyout, business buyout, yfm equity partners

FourNet

Cloud and managed communications services

YFM investment
Undisclosed - 6x return
Investment date(s)
2017 -2021
Deal type
Buyout
Location
Manchester

"We are a telecommunications business that puts the customer at the heart of what we do. We are looking forward to working with YFM to continue to provide award winning support and managed services for our customers and their mission critical infrastructures, and to help them adopt the right technologies to transform their communications and customer experience."

Richard Pennington, MD

Key Information

The Business

FourNet is a leading provider of cloud-based communication and contact centre solutions, specialising in supporting critical government and private sector organisations. With its innovative “Connected Cloud” offering, FourNet helps customers streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and improve service delivery. Established in 2005, the company has become a trusted partner to over 30 UK government departments and agencies, as well as numerous blue-chip private sector clients.

Why We Invested

YFM Equity Partners invested in FourNet in 2017 to support its growth strategy. The partnership focused on expanding FourNet’s product offering, bolstering its market position in the public sector, and accelerating its development in cloud and managed services

Growth Potential

During YFM’s investment period, FourNet achieved significant milestones:

  • Revenue more than doubled, while profitability increased threefold.
  • Expanded its customer base across government and enterprise sectors, securing contracts with critical public services.
  • Advanced its flagship “Connected Cloud” platform, providing flexible, secure, and scalable communication solutions.
  • Completed a strategic acquisition of ComputerTel, broadening its capabilities and market reach.
  • Garnered multiple industry awards, affirming its leadership in customer experience and innovation.

Outcome
In 2021, YFM exited its investment in FourNet through a secondary private equity deal, delivering substantial returns for investors. This successful exit highlights YFM’s expertise in supporting ambitious management teams to scale businesses and create lasting value.