{
  "id": 6555834,
  "title": "KKR swoops on AIM construction software firm for £208m",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/10/kkr-swoops-on-aim-construction-software-firm-for-208m",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-10T06:32:57.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "City AM",
    "slug": "city-am",
    "url": "https://www.cityam.com/kkr-swoops-on-aim-construction-software-firm-for-208m/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Private equity giant KKR has acquired construction software company Eleco for £207.6 million, as part of a surge of takeovers on the London Stock Exchange this year. The deal, secured in partnership with venture capital firm Accel, received approval from Eleco's board. Shareholders stand to gain a significant 235p per share, equating to a 74.7% premium over the previous trading session's closing price. Eleco's shares, listed on London's junior stock market, have experienced volatility over the past year, dipping to a low of 105p before settling at 134p on Wednesday, marking an 18% decline over the year. Investors holding 45.2% of Eleco's shares have already expressed support for the acquisition, with the transaction expected to conclude by early 2027, pending court approvals. Eleco's revenue grew by 8% to £19.9 million in July, propelled by a 14% increase in recurring subscription and software maintenance income to £16.9 million. The company specializes in software and related services for niche markets within the architectural, engineering, and construction industries, such as timber frame and staircase manufacturing. Subscription sales constitute 85% of its total revenue, contributing to a record £35.5 million in recurring revenue. This acquisition comes amid a wave of UK M&A activity, totaling $132.5 billion as of September 1, nearly triple the $48.2 billion recorded in the same period last year. Several London-listed firms recently accepted foreign bids, prompting calls for regulatory intervention. Notable acquisitions included Bodycote and Gamma Communications for over £3 billion, along with energy firm Capricorn.",
  "summary": "Private equity giant KKR has struck a deal to buy an AIM-listed construction software company in the latest of a wave of takeovers on the London Stock Exchange this year. In partnership with venture capital firm Accel, KKR has snapped up Eleco for £207.6m in a deal backed by the company’s board. Shareholders are in [...]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}