The market for business services is large and diverse.  It’s expanding rapidly, driven by economic growth and the increasing prominence of outsourcing and offshoring, trends which are now supported by the accessibility of talent in Asia.

At 3i, we partner with well-established operators globally, providing capital in Europe, Asia and the US.  We invest across six broadly defined sub-sectors:

• White collar outsourcing: Covering a wide range of services, with BPO at its core.  Successful operators use intellectual capital to build strong client relationships, a compelling brand positioning and a rounded, cost effective product offering.
• Consultancy: High skilled, high margin advisory activities, covering verticals such as environmental, nuclear, engineering and professional services.
• Testing, Inspection and Certification: A highly fragmented and growing market, driven by globalization of trade movements and increasing quality verification.
• Blue collar services: Covering activities such as maintenance, repairs, facilities management, cleaning and security. We have considerable experience in the more mature UK market and are applying our knowledge across Europe, where outsourcing is being driven by changes in legislation and public sector practice.
• Distribution/Logistics: Specialist distributors who understand and adapt to clients’ needs can earn high returns in a market where ‘commoditised’ players face continuous pressure on margins.
• Rental: International expansion opportunities for businesses involved in the hire of equipment and other ‘nonconsumables’, where they can achieve high levels of utilisation and charge for premium-level service.

3i is an attractive partner for these businesses due to our:

• Established track record of investing across the services sector.
• global network which enables us to support the creation of pan-continental operators.
• Access to experienced industrialists who are able to support entrepreneurial management teams.