IQGeo Group plc has been acquired by KKR to enhance geospatial software solutions

September 2024 — The global investment firm KKR has acquired IQGeo Group plc, a geospatial software developer headquartered in the UK, for US$429.8 million (£333 million).

KKR will combine its extensive technology and telecoms expertise to invest in the growth of the business by supporting international expansion, broadening its product range and strengthening its customer relationships. It sees an opportunity to accelerate IQGeo’s transition toward a recurring software-centric business model in addition to the development of IQGeo’s future product roadmap under private ownership.

IQGeo Group plc is a geospatial and network management software company. Telecommunication, fiber and utility operators can build better networks with IQGeo’s award-winning geospatial network management software. The ability to powerfully model any network requirement, integrate every system and data source, and support field and office teams with continual innovation, is helping operators create the networks of the future. IQGeo’s solutions ensure greater cross-team collaboration and process efficiency throughout the network lifecycle, from planning and design to construction, operations and sales. IQGeo’s integrated network and adaptive grid solutions provide highly competitive fiber and 5G broadband rollouts in addition to complex utility grid modernization projects. IQGeo partners with large multinationals and smaller regional operators to deliver the digital innovation they need to accelerate time-to-revenue, increase network resilience, improve operational safety and deliver ROI.

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. The company aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing top talent and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets. It also has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. Its insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group.

Our role in the transaction

Oaklins Cavendish, one of Oaklins’ member firms in the UK, advised IQGeo on its acquisition by a newly formed company backed by KKR. This marks the culmination of the team’s partnership with IQGeo since 2018, during which time they have supported their strategic journey on an ongoing and transactional basis, including a disposal, capital return and two equity fundraising-backed acquisitions.