The current leadership team at DataLase has acquired full independence for the company through a management buyout (MBO) from Sato, the global provider of auto-ID solutions.

With advisory assistance provided by international audit, accounting and consulting group, Mazars, and legal advice by UK law firm Shoosmiths, the deal was led by the firm’s COO and CFO, Clare Lewis, CSMO, Paul Dustain and CTO, Alexander (Ally) Grant. Completion took place on September 15, 2020.

Based in Cheshire, DataLase was originally acquired by Sato in December 2016. The change in direction is centred on Sato’s strategic aim of concentrating resources on its auto-ID solutions business to build sustainable growth and enhance its corporate value, while DataLase looks to push forward with increased technological advancement and to further develop its Photonic Printing offering. Recognizing these differing objectives, the two sides were able to come to an agreement on the transfer of shares.

“It is a really positive deal for the business and benefits all parties,” says Oliver Hoffman, national head of M&A Mazars. “It has been great working with Clare, Paul and Ally, helping them transition from management into shareholders and I have every confidence the business will go from strength to strength under their ownership.”

“This was an exciting deal to be involved in and myself, Leah Cairney and Kendra McCullough were delighted to support such an insightful and knowledgeable management team,” states Andrew Millar, corporate partner at Shoosmiths law firm. “Clare [Lewis], Ally [Grant] and Paul [Dustain] clearly have a strong vision for DataLase and we share their belief that the potential for the brand is sky high.”

Commenting on the MBO, Clare Lewis, now CEO, says, “With an excellent understanding of the business and an appreciation of its future direction, the management team can now continue on the path of new product commercialisation and growing the legacy business. This new era of independence will allow us to become more dynamic and agile in our approach and, with some exciting new developments on the horizon, we look forward to unlocking further commercial success for DataLase. My thanks to Mazars and Shoosmiths for their contributions throughout the process.”