August saw 15 PE-backed acquisitions across Europe, representing an 17% decrease year-over-year with 3 acquisitions less in August 2025 than 2024.
Number of announced PE-backed acquisitions over the past 12 months*
- Number of PE-backed Acquisitions
Roll-Up Market Insights
After two above-average months, the number of PE-backed acquisitions is almost back to its yearly all-time low.
With 8 acquisitions, the UK was the country with the most PE-backed activity, followed by Bulgaria.
H.I.G. Capital (Miami) was the most active acquirer in August with two acquisitions.
Software, Marketing and Retail were the most mentioned acquired industries.
This month’s case study: Pursuit Aerospace – Expansion in Capabilities
Founded in 2023 in Manchester, UK, Pursuit Aerospace is a global manufacturer of complex aircraft engine parts created using highly integrated and lean production systems.
Backed by CD&R and Greenbriar, Pursuit Aerospace has pursued an active buy-and-build strategy, announcing 4 acquisitions since 2024.
- Pursuit Aerospace's Acquisitions
Its latest move came in August 2025, with the acquisition of Aeromet International (founded in 1982 in Sittingbourne, UK), a specialist in aluminum and magnesium sand castings and aluminum investment castings for the aerospace and defense industries.
This acquisition further strengthens Pursuit’s capabilities in advanced manufacturing and expands its position as a key partner to global aircraft OEMs.
PE interest in aerospace reflects the ongoing attractiveness of the sector
Pursuit Aerospace’s most recent PE-backed acquisition demonstrates the continued growth ambitions of aerospace-focused platforms, especially in enhancing capabilities and strengthening OEM partnerships.
Case study:
The creation and expansion of Pursuit Aerospace highlight the strategic potential PE investors see in the aerospace sector, driven by global demand trends, consolidation opportunities, and strong OEM relationships:
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In 2023, CD&R and Greenbriar combined Whitcraft Group and Paradigm Precision to form Pursuit Aerospace, a global manufacturer of complex aircraft engine components.
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Since its formation, Pursuit has completed four acquisitions, expanding its global footprint and technical capabilities.
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In August 2025, Pursuit acquired Aeromet International (UK), a manufacturer of aluminum and magnesium sand castings for aerospace and defense, further broadening its advanced manufacturing expertise.
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The deal enhances Pursuit’s ability to deliver integrated, lean-engineered production systems and positions it as a more attractive partner to major aircraft manufacturers.
PE investors view aerospace as attractive due to:
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Growth opportunities in commercial and military aviation.
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Scale and diversification potential through consolidation.
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Complementary strengths in manufacturing and geographic reach.
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Enhanced OEM partnerships via integrated processes and lean systems.
*All data from CrunchBase, as of September 4, 2025.
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