POELLATH advises the management of GBA Group on the sale to Bridgepoint
French private equity firm Ardian has sold its majority stake in GBA Group, a provider of specialized laboratory and analytical services, to British investment firm Bridgepoint. The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close by the end of 2026. Ardian will retain a minority stake in GBA Group as part of the transaction. The management team will also continue to hold an investment in the company.
Headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, GBA Group is a leading provider of specialized laboratory and analytical services for clients in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, chemicals, food, drinking water, and environmental sectors. Since Ardian’s investment in 2021, the company has significantly expanded its international footprint, extending its operations beyond the DACH region into additional European markets, Southeast Asia, and the United States.
Driven by a consistent buy-and-build strategy and strong organic growth, GBA Group increased its workforce from approximately 1,400 to around 3,500 employees. At the same time, the company expanded its service offering, entered new end markets, and further strengthened its position in a market environment characterized by increasing regulatory requirements and growing demand for independent scientific expertise.
Bridgepoint is one of the world’s leading mid-market investors, with a strong local presence across Europe, North America, and Asia. The firm invests primarily in the private equity, infrastructure, and private credit sectors.
POELLATH advised the management of GBA Group on all legal and tax aspects of its management participation in connection with the sale with the following Munich-based team:
- Dr. Benedikt Hohaus (partner, management participation, M&A/PE)
- Silke Simmer (counsel, management participation, M&A/PE)
- Natalie Tafelski (associate, management participation, M&A/PE)
