How has Kickmaker evolved over recent years?
Its been a great story so far! We started the business in 2016 with the ambition of creating the market leading French services and engineering company with a unique expertise in high-tech projects - which I think we can say we have achieved. I am very lucky to work with a highly experienced and committed leadership team who share a vision built on innovation for a sustainable future (industry relocation, circular economy, industry decarbonisation, eco-design etc.). Together, we have mastered the whole industrialisation process for smart industries, from design and industrialisation strategy, to product lifecycle management.
Why did you decide to consider private equity investment?
We entered the process with a clear strategy to further enhance our growth and profitability, with the ultimate goal to become the global leader in sustainable product design and industrialisation for smart technologies. We have already enjoyed rapid organic growth and are seeing strong pull from new and existing clients into the US, as well as wider opportunities to consolidate the market. It felt like we were entering a new phase of our development story, where the right partner could really help accelerate our achievements.
What made you chose MML as a partner?
There were a number of reasons why we chose to work with MML. Most importantly, we liked the people. This is very much a partnership relationship and we knew we would be working together for a number of years so we needed to feel they were aligned with our culture and work style. It was important they understood our unique, passionate culture and to believe they would listen, understand, and respect that. Secondly, MML's on-the-ground presence in the US was particularly important as the US is our major international market for expansion. We are excited about the opportunity of working closely with Luke and his team, and believe they will be a great support in helping Kickmaker reach our full potential.
