Business Acquisition at Castelnau Group
Looking for a Long-Term Home for your Business?
Why Choose Castelnau Group?
Permanent Capital
We have no exit investment horizon; our ideal investment would be permanently held. We think this makes us a great home for founders trying to find the appropriate custodian for businesses they have built.
Empowering Leadership
We look to empower rather than interfere with strong leadership teams.
Flexibility and Speed
We can be flexible in terms of transaction structuring, adapting to what makes most sense for both parties. We are a non-bureaucratic organisation, meaning we can make decisions very quickly.
Strengthening Businesses
Beyond capital, we can offer strategic guidance, access to a valuable network of business expertise, and shared learnings from our other portfolio companies.
Respect for Culture
We value company culture, seeing it as fundamental to long-term success. In fact, companies with unique cultures that need preserving are just the kind we are looking for.
Proven Success
Backed by Phoenix Asset Management Partners, we have a track record of successful acquisitions and a reputation for fairness and integrity in all our business dealings.
What Type of Business Are We Looking For?
Clear Growth Potential
Scalable businesses that will benefit from strategic investment, operating in a market that provides significant headroom for growth.
Competitive Advantage/Economic Moat
Businesses with strong market position, brand recognition, and customer loyalty. Long-term durability of the business model.
Technological Adaptability
Opportunity to benefit from technological changes and innovation.
Demonstrated Earnings Power
Ideally businesses with a track record of profitability and cash generation.
Strong Management Team
Experienced teams we can help super-charge.
Case Studies
Guy Stainthorpe, Co-founder of Corgi Model Club
In early 2024, our portfolio company Hornby Plc acquired The Corgi Model Club ("CMC"). The initial consideration was structured as a mix of cash, and an agreement to acquire CMC's outstanding inventory. A profit-based earnout was also introduced to reward the sellers based on CMC's future business performance. As part of the transaction, co-founder Guy Stainthorpe joined Hornby to lead the combined Corgi and CMC business, becoming the Brand Managing Director of Corgi.
Launched in 2021, CMC developed a successful subscription model offering reissues of classic Corgi models. The business brought over 6,000 active subscribers and £2 million in annual revenue at a 15% operating margin.
The acquisition gave Hornby full ownership of the CMC customer base, product rights, and subscription infrastructure – supporting its direct-to-consumer strategy and future brand growth.
Watch Guy reflect on the journey from launching Corgi Model Club to joining the Hornby Group and how Castelnau supported a smooth transition.
Let's Start the Conversation
If you are thinking about selling all or part of your business, or are seeking a long-term partner to drive its future growth, we'd love to hear from you.