Cinven, an international private equity firm, has signed an agreement to enter into a strategic partnership with Grant Thornton Germany, one of the country’s fastest-growing audit and advisory firms. The deal, which is still subject to approval by Grant Thornton Germany’s equity partners, is designed to support the firm’s next phase of growth and strengthen its position as a trusted adviser to clients in an increasingly complex regulatory and economic environment.
Grant Thornton Germany employs around 2,000 professionals across ten offices, serving a diverse client base that includes family-owned businesses, publicly listed corporations, and public institutions. The firm is recognized for delivering high-quality professional services to international companies in the upper mid-market segment.
Through this partnership, Grant Thornton Germany will gain access to additional growth capital and Cinven’s deep sector expertise. This will enable the firm to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies, including digitalisation and artificial intelligence, expand into new market segments, and enhance its ability to attract, develop, and retain top talent. The collaboration is also expected to reinforce the firm’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in audit and advisory services.
Under the shared ownership of Cinven’s funds, Grant Thornton Germany and Grant Thornton UK will strengthen their cooperation, creating new opportunities for technology investment and cross-border client service between Europe’s two largest economies. Grant Thornton Germany will continue to be part of the Grant Thornton International Limited network, giving it access to resources and expertise in more than 150 markets worldwide.
The partnership reflects Cinven’s confidence in Grant Thornton Germany’s strong market position and long-term growth potential, while providing the resources and strategic support needed to help the firm expand its capabilities and deliver even greater value to its clients.
Advisors: Grant Thornton Germany was advised on the transaction by Perella Weinberg Partners (M&A), Linklaters (Legal), and Deloitte (Financial). Cinven was advised by Freshfields (Legal), Oliver Wyman (Commercial), and Deloitte (Financial & Tax).
KEY QUOTES:
“The partnership with Cinven gives us the opportunity to position Grant Thornton Germany in the best possible way for the future in a dynamic market environment. Cinven brings valuable expertise, resources, and access that will help us further expand our service offering for clients while continuing to enhance our attractiveness for employees and future talent. Cinven shares our values of independence, integrity, and partnership. Together, we aim to strengthen our position as a leading quality provider in the German market and unlock new growth opportunities.”
Prof. Dr. Heike Wieland-Blöse, CEO of Grant Thornton Germany
“With its broad client base and clear focus on the international upper mid-market, Grant Thornton Germany is already strongly positioned. We aim to support the management team and partners with our expertise and, via targeted investments, to harness the opportunities of digitalisation and new technologies for the benefit of their clients – ensuring Grant Thornton Germany remains a frontrunner in innovative audit and advisory services. Demand for high-quality audit in Germany continues to grow. Together we can help meet that demand.”
Bruno Schick, Co-Managing Partner and Head of the DACH team at Cinven, and Maxim Crewe, Partner and Head of Cinven’s Financial Services Sector team
