Beechbrook Capital completes its latest UK investment in LAVA Advisory Partners

Beechbrook Capital has completed a new investment in LAVA Advisory Partners, marking the latest investment from Beechbrook’s fourth UK SME Credit fund.

This senior debt investment will support the London-based M&A advisory firm’s next phase of strategic growth while enabling the business to remain 100% employee owned. The funding follows LAVA’s decision to pursue a financing structure that preserves its Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) model and independence, while providing capital to accelerate its long-term growth ambitions.

Founded in 2020, LAVA has quickly established itself as a leading adviser to mid-market businesses, providing sell-side, buy-side and fundraising advice to founder-led and entrepreneurial companies across a range of sectors. The firm has built a strong reputation for delivering tailored, partner-led advice and is recognised as both a certified B Corp and one of the UK’s first M&A advisory firms to adopt an Employee Ownership Trust structure.

Beechbrook’s investment will support LAVA’s three-pillar growth strategy, including expanding its sector expertise, strengthening its operational infrastructure and supporting its international expansion plans. The funding will also enable continued investment in the firm’s people and cross-border capabilities as it builds on the strong momentum achieved since its launch.

Commenting on the partnership, Simon Woodcock, Partner at LAVA Advisory Partners, said: “Having explored all possible funding options, we ultimately took the path we would advise our clients to take and agreed £8 million in debt funding from Beechbrook. As we look ahead to the next five years and pursue ambitious goals across our strategic pillars, we’re delighted to have the support of such a highly regarded institutional investor. Beechbrook’s confidence in our vision and growth strategy makes this an exciting partnership, and with their backing, it’s full steam ahead.”

Elliot Gargan, Investment Director at Beechbrook Capital, said: “LAVA has a clear and consistent view of where the business is going, supported by a strong market opportunity and a leadership team with the experience and determination to deliver its plans. The momentum around the firm is supported by a clear strategy and a properly structured growth plan. That, along with our past interactions, gives us confidence in the business and makes LAVA a compelling firm for Beechbrook to support.”

Beechbrook looks forward to supporting the management team as LAVA continues to execute its growth strategy, expand its market presence and build on its position as one of the UK’s leading independent M&A advisory firms.