Leading mid-market private equity firm LDC has invested in REAL Digital International Limited (RDIL), the specialised data-led software solutions and automated fulfilment provider, to continue to support the existing management team’s organic growth strategy.

Established in 2004, RDIL plays a key role in helping organisations to solve complex fulfilment challenges. The business optimises client supply chains through its use of automation technology, software, personalisation and managing bespoke uniquely coded products to create more efficient production processes and reduce costs.

The business supports a broad range of sectors including large healthcare organisations to operate pioneering home testing kit programmes to support home testing and screening programmes such as bowel cancer and general wellness. RDIL also serves some of the UK’s largest mobile network operators, providing a personalised mobile SIM packaging and delivery service across their broad supply chains.

RDIL, which is headquartered in Croydon, currently employs more than 80 people and will deliver revenues of £18m for 2021.

LDC’s investment will support the existing management team – led by Managing Director Barry Stephens and Sales and Marketing Director Chris Tagg – to further grow RDIL’s services and market share across all sectors, particularly within healthcare, mobile and connected devices. The leading private equity firm’s support will also enable the team to explore complementary acquisitions.

LDC’s investment was led by Aylesh Patel, Christian Bruning and Dan Gluckman. As part of the transaction, Aylesh and Christian will join REAL’s board as Non-Executive Directors. Martin Hiscox will also join the board as Chairman and David Mitchell as a Non-Executive Director. Martin brings more than 25 years’ experience of working with private equity-backed tech companies including ByBox and James and James, whilst David brings unique experience of scaling medical packaging and tech-enabled businesses.

Barry Stephens, Managing Director of RDIL, said: “This investment allows us to embark on an exciting new chapter for the business continuing to expand and develop our market-leading technological solutions across our broad client base. LDC has really taken the time to get to know our team and the company. With their support, we have the perfect platform to help us to drive the business forward.”

Aylesh Patel, Investment Director at LDC, added: “RDIL has developed a unique proposition to service markets with huge growth potential. We are backing a strong and passionate management team of innovators and problem solvers that continue to surpass their clients’ expectations. We look forward to partnering with Barry, Chris and the team to support the next stage of their growth journey.”