
Sodero Gestion backs MBI of Mobil M
Sodero Gestion has backed the management buy-in of Mobil M, a French business specialising in the design and layout of pharmacies.
It is the first time that Mobil M opens up to an external investor, having been owned by its founder Patrice Coupechoux since inception 40 years ago.
Through the transaction, Coupechoux is exiting the group, giving way to new company head and majority owner Mikaël Le Gall. Sodero is investing alongside Le Gall and takes a minority stake in the group. According to a company release, Sodero's investment is within the €1-2m range. The GP is most likely to have invested through the vehicle Sodero Participations.
With Sodero's support, the group will look to expand its geographical coverage in France and to establish new branches abroad. Le Gall said he also considers opening up Mobil M's design and layout offer to other sectors.
Overall, the company is aiming to raise its turnover from €10m to around €15m within three years.
Debt
The transaction was supported by a senior debt package provided by Caisse d’Epargne and BNP Paribas.
Company
Created in around 1980 by Patrice Coupechoux, Mobil M provides interior design and layout services for pharmacies in France and Europe. The group produces furniture through its subsidiary Atlantic Agencement. It has subsidiaries in Italy, Switzerland and Spain.
Mobil M has a Nantes-based production facility of around 5,000m², and a turnover of around €10m.
People
Sodero Gestion – Olivier Blot (investment director).
Advisers
Equity – Ace Partners, Stéphane Duvail (financial due diligence); Avoxa, Mariel Garnier (legal).
Vendor – EY, François Mace, Audrey Jade (legal).
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