Access MBO is named Buy-out of the Year

Colchester, UK - 04 July 2011 - The recent management buyout of consulting, software, and solutions provider Access UK has seen it named 'Buy-out of the Year' at the M&A Awards, held in London on last week. The £50 million deal, which took place in March, saw existing management team up with Lyceum Capital to buy the company from its founder. Access saw off competition from Wagamama, Spice and Allied Glass to win the prize.

The judges recognised the achievements of the Access board, and the ambitious growth plan put in place as the company continues to grow. On collecting the award Access UK's commercial director Chris Tossell said, "Winning this award was a surprise. The management team at Access and Lyceum Capital did what we believed to be the right deal to take the company forward. We never expected to be named alongside the likes of Wagamama and win Buyout of the Year - it's a complete shock."

The awards, which celebrate deal-making excellence in the mid-market, were presented by broadcaster Selina Scott at a ceremony in Mayfair, London with more than 350 CEOs, MDs, FDs, advisers, venture capitalists and other financiers attending. "Previous winners include the likes of Lloyds TSB, insurance giant Towergate and NBGI Private Equity's Richard Morley, so to be recognised is a real privilege," continued Chris.

The £50 million management buyout saw Lyceum Capital invest alongside Access' existing management, led by CEO Chris Bayne, which has been responsible for driving a 15 per cent growth in sales over the last 12 months. Established in 1991, Access has grown to become a £28 million turnover business with an EBITDA of £5.5 million. The firm has nine offices across the UK and Ireland and employs over 300 people.

For more information on Access contact Matt Newman on 0845 345 3300 or visit www.theaccessgroup.com.