Houlihan Lokey Advises SCG

Houlihan Lokey is pleased to announce that SCG, a leading provider of communications, connectivity, and IT services for U.K. SMEs, has agreed to receive a significant investment from Providence Equity Partners (Providence).

SCG supports approximately 35,000 businesses across the U.K. through an integrated technology offering spanning mobile, broadband, cloud communications, IT services, and cybersecurity. The company serves organisations across a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, professional services, hospitality, and construction, helping customers manage mission-critical communications and technology through a single trusted partner.

SCG has built a reputation for combining high-quality customer service with sector-specific expertise. Its proprietary technology platforms, including Surgery Connect for GP practices and Evonex for SMEs and schools, complement a broader portfolio of connectivity and managed IT services tailored to the evolving needs of U.K. businesses. As AI adoption accelerates, it will drive greater demand for strategic communications while enhancing SCG’s proprietary solutions through AI-enabled capabilities.

The investment from Providence will support SCG’s organic growth plan and ongoing disciplined acquisition strategy. Combined with its software-led expansion in the healthcare and education sectors, SCG is well-positioned to accelerate growth, strengthening its status as a managed service provider of choice for the 35,000 businesses it supports.

Providence is a specialist private equity firm focused on the media, communications, and education sectors, investing across North America and Europe. Founded in 1989 in Providence, Rhode Island, the firm has invested more than $40 billion across over 180 portfolio companies with a transatlantic investment team based primarily in London, New York, and Boston.

Following completion of the transaction, Daryl Pile will continue as Chief Executive Officer, and Founder Paul Bradford will assume the role of President and Board Member. Ares will continue to provide debt financing to SCG going forward, having backed the business since the management buyout in December 2021.

Paul Bradford, President and Founder of SCG, said: “I’m incredibly proud of what the team has built. SCG has always been focused on helping customers adapt as technology evolves while maintaining exceptional service. I’m delighted to remain involved with the business and will support the next stage of its growth alongside Providence and the management team.“

Houlihan Lokey served as the exclusive financial advisor to SCG.

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