Ouest Croissance in MBO for Creat

Ouest's investment remains undisclosed, but the firm typically provides up to €10m per transaction.

The deal saw Creat's former sales director Bernard Bak and research director Arnaud Marie secure a joint controlling stake in the business; following the MBO, they were appointed as CEO and managing director, respectively.

Creat intends to grow by strengthening its presence in the professional kitchen and refrigeration segments.

In addition, the business is looking to expand into neighbouring regions, with plans to service clients within a 150km radius of its historic base in Gironde, in south-west France. Bolt-on opportunities will also be considered.

The changes are expected to drive the company's revenues up to €10m from the current €6.5m figure within five years.

According to Creat, the deal was initiated when Banque Populaire Aquitaine Centre Atlantique, a previous financial backer for the business, approached both Ouest Croissance and Bernard Bak and Arnaud Marie on behalf of the sellers.

Company
Founded in 1991, Creat sells professional kitchen and refrigeration equipment, and provides maintenance services for clients within the hospitality sector. Headquartered in Yvrac, near Bordeaux, the company manages two subsidiaries – Réfrigération Services and Sanchez Equipements – and employs a 40-strong workforce. It most recently reported €6.5m in turnover.

People
Ouest Croissance was represented by investment manager Pierre Racca and chairperson Henri Guillermit. Bernard Bak and Arnaud Marie are Creat's CEO and managing director, respectively.

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• Buyouts
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• Ouest Croissance