NCC Group Eyes Acquisitions after Profits Boost
Deal News | Jun 20, 2025 | Business Cloud
In the latest financial update by Manchester-based cyber security firm NCC Group, the company reported a remarkable doubling of its profits for the half-year ending March 31, 2025, with pre-tax profits growing to £16.6 million from the previous year's H1 of £8.4 million. The financial boost follows the strategic sale of its Fox Crypto business for £65.6 million, positioning NCC Group to explore potential acquisitions in the cyber security sector. Furthermore, the firm is exploring the possible divestment of its Escode business, with discussions occurring with interested parties. Executives suggest that successful divestments could result in capital returns for shareholders and further investment in cybersecurity. Despite a 6.6% decline in cyber security revenue, the company delivered an adjusted EBITDA of £11 million. Led by CEO Mike Maddison, NCC Group continues to execute its strategy to advance its global service lines and has shown demand growth in cyber security solutions, with a particular focus on strategic client relationships, recurring revenue streams, and innovative technology partnerships. The company, with a workforce of 2,200 and a market cap of £450 million, has secured a £120 million borrowing facility to support future acquisitions.
Sectors
- Cyber Security
- Corporate Finance
- Mergers and Acquisitions
Geography
- United Kingdom – NCC Group is a UK-based company headquartered in Manchester, thus the primary geographical focus is on the UK.
- Global – NCC Group operates worldwide and is mentioned to be expanding its global delivery model with a significant presence in the Philippines.
Industry
- Cyber Security – NCC Group is involved in the cybersecurity sector, offering services related to digital protection and security solutions, which is a rapidly growing field given the increasing need for cyber resilience.
- Corporate Finance – The article discusses financial transactions including the sale of Fox Crypto and explores potential acquisitions and divestments, reflecting corporate finance activities.
- Mergers and Acquisitions – NCC Group is considering acquisitions and has recently sold a business segment, which falls under the M&A industry category.
Financials
- £16.6 million – The profit before taxation for NCC Group in the first half of 2025.
- £8.4 million – The profit before taxation for NCC Group in the first half of 2024.
- £65.6 million – The amount for which NCC Group sold Fox Crypto.
- £120 million – The borrowing facility secured by NCC Group to facilitate acquisitions.
- £11 million – The adjusted EBITDA from NCC Group's cybersecurity revenue stream.
- £450 million – The market capitalization of NCC Group.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| NCC Group | Target Company | Company | A Manchester-based cyber security firm focused on expanding its operations and increasing profitability through acquisitions. |
| Fox Crypto | Sold Business Unit | Company | A previously owned business unit by NCC Group that was sold for strategic re-alignment purposes. |
| Escode | Potential Selling Company | Company | A business component of NCC Group being considered for sale as part of its operational strategy. |
| Mike Maddison | CEO | Person | Chief Executive Officer of NCC Group, oversaw the strategic changes including the sale of Fox Crypto and prospective acquisitions. |