MJ Quinn

Business Services

MJ Quinn was a multi-disciplined infrastructure service business specialising in the rail and telecoms sectors. The telecoms business provides access network solutions, fibre rollout for businesses and households, and provision of energy-efficient cooling solutions, with the rail division providing mechanical, electrical, fire detection and suppression services.

Key Facts

Initial investment: 01/11/2008

Sector: Business Services

Fund: Buyout Fund I

Status: Realised

Investment Highlights

  • Expanded into the telecommunications sector through close working relationship with British Telecom and became one of the leading providers in the provision of fibre roll out across the UK.
  • Gary Howse, a longstanding Palatine contact and private investor, joined the team as chairman.
  • The rail and telecoms division were split into two separate trading entities to allow separate exits to trade buyers.
  • Turnover grew from £30m to over £100m with profitability increasing significantly as a result.

Partnership Motivation

MJ Quinn was a market-leading provider of maintenance services to the UK rail sector, and significant market growth was anticipated due to the planned upgrade in infrastructure on the London Underground and the associated rail sector. The business also had significant opportunities for operational improvement and efficiency gains, and there was potential for expansion into adjacent maintenance markets including the telecoms and sprinkler systems.

It has been great to work with Mike and the management team over the last few years as the business has broadened its service offering, achieving significant growth as a result. The sale to Visabeira/Constructel provides the business with the necessary financial and operational backing to continue on its impressive growth journey over the next five years.

Ed Fazakerley, Partner

Palatine