Target Company Overview

Liberta Partners, based in Munich, has acquired CBW - College Berufliche Weiterbildung GmbH as part of a succession plan from its founder and CEO, Fahima Wieghard. Following the acquisition, Ms. Wieghard's daughter, Naheed Priehn, has been appointed as the new CEO. With 16 years of experience at CBW, Ms. Priehn previously held the position of Head of Operations, indicating a strong leadership continuity and commitment to the company's future growth.

CBW is a DIN EN ISO and AZAV certified educational institution with locations in Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt am Main. The company specializes in government-subsidized further education and retraining programs, which can be supported through education or activation vouchers. In addition to these offerings, CBW conducts part-time and open seminars, as well as customized corporate seminars.

Industry Overview in Germany

The education and training industry in Germany is witnessing significant transformation driven by technological advancement and evolving labor market demands. With a focus on lifelong learning, businesses are increasingly investing in employee development to maintain competitive advantages in a rapidly changing environment.

In this context, institutions like CBW play a crucial role by providing upskilling and reskilling opportunities that align with current industry standards. As companies undergo digitalization, the need for skilled professionals versed in advanced technologies continues to grow, making educational institutions that offer relevant training essential.

Furthermore, Germany's demographic shift presents challenges and opportunities for the workforce. With an aging population, the demand for skilled workers across various sectors is escalating, prompting a greater emphasis on vocational training and continuing education programs.

The German government's initiatives to promote education and integration, particularly for refugees, are also reshaping the industry landscape. Programs supported by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) are expanding opportunities for individuals seeking to enter the workforce, especially in fields such as healthcare and technology.

Rationale Behind the Deal

The acquisition of CBW by Liberta Partners aligns with the growing demand for vocational training and further education in Germany. By integrating CBW into its portfolio, Liberta Partners aims to leverage the company’s established reputation and expertise to enhance its service offerings and expand its market presence in major German cities.

Naheed Priehn’s involvement in the company signals a commitment to the development of multiple educational paths, thereby increasing access to high-quality educational services. In the wake of structural changes in the job market, CBW is positioned to play a pivotal role in facilitating workforce development and promoting digital literacy among diverse populations.

Investor Information

Liberta Partners is a Munich-based multi-family holding that strategically invests in enterprises within the German-speaking region, focusing on succession situations and corporate divestitures with notable operational and strategic development potential. Through its '100% Core & Care' approach, Liberta Partners not only invests in businesses but actively drives their growth by leveraging significant operational expertise.

The team at Liberta Partners consists of 20 professionals specializing in M&A, corporate development, and legal administration, with further oversight from an active industry advisory board. This comprehensive support structure aims to ensure the continuous improvement and sustainable growth of the companies within their portfolio.

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From an investment perspective, the acquisition of CBW by Liberta Partners appears to be a strategic move that creates significant value potential. Given the increasing demand for vocational training in Germany, CBW is likely positioned for substantial growth, particularly in urban areas seeking educational services.

The commitment demonstrated by new CEO Naheed Priehn, coupled with Liberta Partners’ operational support, can drive innovation and attract a broader demographic of learners. Furthermore, expanding CBW's footprint in other major cities could diversify revenue streams and enhance brand recognition.

However, challenges such as competition in the education sector and the need for continuous adaptation to new educational technologies must be navigated. Successfully addressing these challenges will be key to maximizing the investment's return potential.

Overall, this deal demonstrates the alignment of educational services with labor market needs, and if executed effectively, it has the potential to be a highly beneficial investment in the long term.

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