Premium

EQT Bets Big on Open Sourced Software with SUSE Acquisition

SUSE, a global provider of open source software for Linux operating systems, was the first company to provide enterprise-grade open sourced infrastructure software with both on-site and cloud-based application delivery technology. Under the ownership of Micro Focus International, SUSE operated as a semi-independent company and developed its portfolio to include application and container delivery technology including cloud and storage solutions.

Growth investment firm EQT intends to provide both capital and active strategic support to enabling SUSE to operate as a truly independent company.  EQT’s objective is for SUSE to expand its product portfolio by further developing its cloud technology platform.

SUSE’s culture of innovation and its beginnings as pioneers in open source technology was instrumental in EQT’s decision.  Additionally, the company has a consistent history of strong performance since its establishment in 1992.  EQT acquired SUSE for approximately 8 times revenue and 26.7 times adjusted operating profit from the period Oct 31, 2016-2017.

EQT was founded in 1994 in Sweden with offices in 14 countries across the globe. EQT is a development-focused investor that aids companies in formulating and executing a growth strategy. The firm has a diverse investment portfolio with numerous investments in healthcare, consumer goods, education, software, real estate and in industrial technologies.

Their strategy is to apply an industrial approach towards business growth and organizational development.  The EQT professional network is an integral component of the EQT business model.  It consists of more than 250 advisors who are established business leaders in a variety of industries.  In turn, the firm can offer highly specific and strategic game plans to its portfolio companies.