DJH helps seal cross-border ABB deal

A North West professional services firm has helped deliver a high-profile cross-border transaction linking UK innovation with a global industrial group.

Manchester-based DJH has advised on the sale of Stockport-headquartered IPEC Limited to ABB, a leader in electrification and automation.

The deal sees IPEC, a specialist in advanced partial discharge testing and monitoring, join ABB’s electrification service division, strengthening its ability to deliver predictive maintenance solutions across sectors including power networks, renewables and data centres.

DJH provided corporate finance and tax structuring support to IPEC’s owners throughout the transaction, helping navigate the complexities of a cross-border deal.

Natasha Millward, client services director at DJH in Manchester, said: “This is an excellent moment for DJH and highlights our growing experience in the technology space.

“We have supported IPEC on its growth ambitions for the last eighteen months, providing essential advice on day-to-day considerations throughout the negotiations. 

“This deal gives the management team the opportunity to broaden its international presence and expand even quicker with the backing of a blue-chip brand like ABB.

“The sale will undoubtedly help accelerate the company’s recruitment plans across the North West.”

She added: “For us, it shows how DJH can understand the bespoke requirements of firms involved in technology and manufacturing, overcoming complex tax structures and international regulations to arrive at a transaction that really works for both parties, not to mention the industries they both serve.”

Founded by Dr Colin Smith out of the University of Manchester, IPEC has grown into an international business employing more than 70 people, with operations spanning Europe, the Middle East and the US.

The acquisition marks a significant step in the company’s growth journey, combining its technical expertise with ABB’s global reach to support high-performance, sustainable infrastructure.

Colin added: “This transaction has been in the making for more than two years, so we are delighted to officially sign the contract and become part of ABB, one of the world’s most respected names in electrification.

“It wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding support of the team at DJH, who has worked tirelessly to support a structured and ambitious route to sale.”

Legal advice to IPEC’s shareholders was provided by Charlotte Mills and Faizan Nayyar of commercial law firm Bermans’ corporate team.

Charlotte added: “The sale to ABB is testament to the successful business that Colin Smith and the team at IPEC have built.

 “It has been a genuine pleasure to support them on this journey, and we wish continued success to them and all those involved in IPEC’s future.”

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