October 31, 2023

Barings Supports Public to Private Transaction of Blancco Technology Group Plc by Francisco Partners

Barings, one of the world’s leading investment managers, today announced its role as sole lender of secured credit facilities backing Francisco Partners’ recommended takeover offer for Blancco Technology Group plc, a leading global provider of data erasure and mobile diagnostic software solutions.

Blancco is a market leader in secure data erasure and mobile lifecycle solutions. Its core product offering is an array of B2B secure data erasure software provided to enterprises, IT asset disposal vendors (ITAD) and the mobile industry. Blancco’s long-standing position in the market is supported by a network of blue-chip channel partnerships, which include ServiceNow, AWS, Accenture and Tata Consulting. Blancco was founded in 1997, is based in the UK and has 20 offices across 17 countries. With over 2,500 customers served across 70 countries, Blancco employs c.350 employees, performs c.150,000 daily data erasures and owns 40+ patents.

Commenting on the deal, Matt Carty, Managing Director in Barings’ European Private Finance Group, said, “We are delighted to have supported Francisco Partners with their takeover of Blancco Technology. Public equity valuations have created opportunities for financial sponsors and Barings has been one of the most active private credit lenders for public to private transactions.”

Georgi Chilikov, Director at Francisco Partners said, “We were pleased for the support of Barings on this take private transaction, which represents the second transaction we have completed with Barings in Europe over the last twelve months building on our relationship.”

About Barings
Barings is a $347+ billion* global investment manager sourcing differentiated opportunities and building long-term portfolios across public and private fixed income, real estate, and specialist equity markets. With investment professionals based in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific, the firm, a subsidiary of MassMutual, aims to serve its clients, communities and employees, and is committed to sustainable practices and responsible investment.

*Assets under management as of September 30, 2023

About Francisco Partners
Francisco Partners is a leading global investment firm that specializes in partnering with technology and technology-enabled businesses. Since its launch over 20 years ago, Francisco Partners has invested in more than 400 technology companies, making it one of the most active and longstanding investors in the technology industry. With approximately $45 billion in capital raised to date, the firm invests in opportunities where its deep sectoral knowledge and operational expertise can help companies realize their full potential.

Media Contacts
Barings@secnegate.co.uk / Mediarelations@barings.com