"This deal comes at a critical junction in credit markets as we continue to support our clients in an evolving market environment."
- Fraser Gemmell, group CEO of Pepper Advantage
Pepper Global has sold its credit management firm, Pepper Advantage, to private investment firm J.C. Flowers & Co.
Pepper Advantage offers a range of data led and credit management services via a technology platform that spans across Asia, Europe, and the United Kingdom. The company, with $55 billion (USD) assets under management, operates in multiple asset classes including residential and commercial mortgages, real estate, SME loans, asset financing and leasing, auto and consumer loans, credit cards, retail finance and BNPL, in addition to offering outsourced operational support services to both financial and non-financial clients.
The sale is subject to regulatory approvals and terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to complete in the first quarter of 2025. Following the transaction completing, Pepper Advantage will continue to operate as an independent entity, with its existing management team remaining in place.
Fraser Gemmell, group CEO of Pepper Advantage, said: "We are delighted to join forces with J.C. Flowers & Co as we embark on the next phase of our growth strategy. Their extensive experience and resources will provide us with the support we need following a period of prolonged success under the ownership of Pepper Global and will help us enhance our offering. This deal comes at a critical junction in credit markets as we continue to support our clients in an evolving market environment."
Peter Yordán, managing director of J.C. Flowers & Co, commented: "We look forward to acquiring Pepper Advantage and continuing to build upon its strong foundation of success. We believe Pepper Advantage is a leader in the international credit management space, and together with its management team, we will work to capitalise on emerging opportunities and drive continued operational excellence at the company."
Andrew Smith, group chief operating officer and company secretary, Pepper Global, added: “The sale of Pepper Advantage to J.C. Flowers & Co represents an excellent outcome for Pepper Global shareholders. The Pepper Advantage management team has built a world-leading credit management firm spanning Europe and Asia, which has created significant value for all stakeholders involved. We continue to share the vision and strategy of Fraser and his team and are excited for their next stage of growth under the ownership of J.C. Flowers & Co.”