Stockport electoral services firm acquired by investment firm

Stockport provider of electoral services for local government and online voting has been acquired by investors, Owner Venture Managers.

Print Image Network (PIN), which serves councils nationwide, trade unions and other membership organisations, as well as for AGMs, provides electoral printing, data and mailing services, such as ballot books, poll cards and postal voting packs, as well as internet voting via its UK Engage arm.

The acquisition by Owner Venture Managers, backed by a seven-figure loan from Frontier Development Capital (FDC), will allow for the eventual retirement of directors John Foster and Stephen Power (pictured), who founded the business in 2000. Both founders will retain a stake in the business and continue to lead its growth in the immediate future. Print Image Network employs over 20 staff in Stockport and works with a network of production partners throughout the UK.

John Foster, director of Print Image Network, said:

“Stephen and I have worked hard to build the business over the past 20-odd years and have a great client base and a fantastic team. We wanted to find an investment partner who could safeguard our legacy and take the business forward. We liked the approach taken by Owner Venture Managers and look forward to working with their team as we continue to grow the business.”

Owner Venture Managers was founded by James Wooster over 20 years ago and now has 15 portfolio companies. It specialises in acquiring owner-managed SMEs and helping them with succession planning.

Print Image Network and its founders were advised in the deal by two Stockport firms: Hallidays Corporate Finance and Gorvins Solicitors. RSM provided financial due diligence for Owner Venture Managers. FDC Pellys provided legal advice to Owner Venture Managers, while Squires acted for FDC.