Herbert Smith Freehills advises Dawsongroup on its acquisition by KKR

Herbert Smith Freehills has advised Dawsongroup, a leading independent asset leasing business which provides a diverse range of business-critical solutions, on the sale by its current shareholders to KKR.

The transaction is part of KKR’s Global Climate strategy, dedicated to scaling net-zero solutions and transitioning and decarbonising higher emitting assets, which closely aligns with Dawsongroup’s long-term sustainability-led ambitions.

Headquartered in Milton Keynes, UK, Dawsongroup has developed a diversified customer base and employs over 1,150 employees across 11 countries. Since its inception in 1935, Dawsongroup has grown to be a sector leader in asset leasing, including vehicles and refrigerated boxes, with a broad and integrated business model that involves the customisation of assets to customer specification as well as maintenance and repairs.

The Dawson family has controlled the Group for over 90 years, overseeing its significant growth to date.

The Herbert Smith Freehills team was led by partner Alan Montgomery and of counsel Shaun Williamson.  They were supported by partners Casey Dalton, Veronica Roberts, Gabrielle Wong and Marina Reason, senior associates Faria Ali, Clemence Barraud, Chelsea Fish, Chris Hurn and Eamon McCarthy-Keen, and associates Ananya Bajpai, Lucy Kelly, Georgie Crawford, Toni Mathers and Louis Austin.

Shaun Williamson commented: "It has been a real pleasure to have advised Dawsongroup on this strategic transaction with KKR. The transaction, which brought together teams from across the firm, showcases our ability to work collaboratively for clients on their most complex deals. With the focus on decarbonisation, the transaction also closely aligns with our expertise in energy transition."

The transaction is subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals.  HSBC and PwC acted as joint financial advisers to the shareholders of Dawsongroup on the transaction.