Zest Acquired by Epassi Group in Strategic Expansion
Deal News | Jun 05, 2025 | Stephenson Harwood LLP
Law firm Stephenson Harwood LLP played a crucial role in advising FPE Capital on the sale of Zest to Epassi Group. The transaction marked Epassi Group’s acquisition of an awarded employee benefits software platform, Zest, which FPE Capital had invested in during a July 2021 management buyout. The sale is expected to bolster Zest’s growth, enhancing its product development, team capabilities, and market strategies under Epassi’s stewardship. Stephenson Harwood also advised Zest’s management on their reinvestment into Epassi Group, showcasing an integrated advisory approach from a multi-disciplinary team. The team, led by Private Equity Partner Chris Manning, with Associate Laurence Whymark, involved expertise from various departments, including employment, finance, and tax, ensuring a comprehensive legal service to facilitate the transaction.
Sectors
- Private Equity
- Software
- Employee Benefits Technology
Geography
- Europe – Epassi Group is referred to as a leading pan-European technology provider, indicating operations and expansion focus within Europe.
- United Kingdom – Stephenson Harwood LLP and FPE Capital, the legal and private equity advisors respectively, are based in the UK, highlighting the country’s relevance.
Industry
- Private Equity – The article discusses the sale of Zest by a private equity firm, FPE Capital, indicating the industry's relevance.
- Software – Zest is described as an employee benefits software platform, indicating its place within the software industry.
- Employee Benefits Technology – The acquisition involves a company that provides employee benefits solutions, placing it within the employee benefits technology sector.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zest | Target Company | Company | An award-winning employee benefits software platform that was sold to Epassi Group. |
| FPE Capital | Selling Company | Company | A private equity firm focused on software and data, which sold Zest to Epassi Group. |
| Epassi Group | Bidding Company | Company | A pan-European employee benefits technology provider acquiring Zest to expand its market reach. |
| Stephenson Harwood LLP | Legal Advisor | Company | A law firm advising on the sale of Zest and facilitating reinvestment by its management. |