Exclusive Networks has been acquired by Crédit Agricole Private Equity

Crédit Agricole Private Equity has acquired a 69% stake in Exclusive Networks, a B-to-B distributor of information systems security solutions, as part of a primary LBO alongside the group's chief executive and key managers, for US$44 million.

Based in Boulogne-Billancourt, France, Exclusive Networks is one of Europe's leading added-value distributors specializing in security, storage and network solutions for business users.

The aim of the LBO is to create a European leader in the distribution of information systems security solutions by continuing and developing the strategy already put in place by the management. The group's two key strategic aims are to strengthen its vendor base in countries where it already operates, and to accelerate its pan-European expansion, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia, through acquisitions Olivier Breittmayer, Chairman and Chief Executive of the group, commented: "Crédit Agricole Private Equity's arrival as a shareholder marks a new milestone in the group's development and will help drive our strategic ambitions."

Philippe Zurawski, Director of LBO & Expansion Capital at Crédit Agricole Private Equity, added: "Exclusive Networks has enjoyed strong growth in the past, outperforming the market, and has demonstrated its ability to expand through acquisitions. We intend to support the group in its ambitious projects with the aim of tripling its size within five years."

Oaklins' team in France advised Exclusive Networks in this very successful LBO.