BGF investment supports Rapidrop Global fire safety expansion
Iain Hoey
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UK manufacturer Rapidrop receives fire safety investment
BGF has invested in UK-based manufacturer Rapidrop Global, a supplier of fire safety products, to support international expansion.
According to Rapidrop Global, the funding from BGF will support growth into new markets and product development, alongside leadership restructuring and operational scaling.
Rapidrop is based in Cambridgeshire and designs and manufactures fire sprinkler heads and infrastructure products.
The company stated that it holds global accreditations from multiple internationally recognised bodies, enabling it to serve customers in over 80 countries.
BGF has described the fire suppression market as undergoing growth, driven by changes in regulation, urban development, and increased fire safety measures in global construction.
Fire suppression market growth creates investor interest
BGF’s Central & East investment team, led by Mark Nunny and Elena Kovalikhina, completed the deal as part of their recent activity in the region.
The investment follows two other recent BGF investments in the last 12 months, in Signify Research and Miracle Design & Play.
According to BGF, the fire suppression industry is forecast to grow at over 8 percent annually through to 2030.
This growth is attributed to regulatory requirements and a global focus on reducing fire risks in buildings.
BGF investor Mark Nunny said: “Rapidrop is a well-established brand in a rapidly expanding, regulation-driven market.
“With a diversified customer base – including distributors, installers, and contractors – Rapidrop has built a strong foundation for sustained growth.
“Rapidrop’s strong portfolio of proprietary products, combined with its global regulatory approval, provides a significant competitive advantage.
“We are excited to partner with Chris and the team to support the company’s ambitious growth plans.”
Leadership changes accompany expansion strategy
As part of the funding deal, Rapidrop has appointed Chris Shelley as Chief Executive Officer and Richard Whiting as Chair.
Shelley previously served as Chief Commercial Officer at ENVEA Group.
Richard Whiting has taken on the Chair role to support strategic planning during the expansion phase.
Chris Shelley said: “I am delighted to have recently joined Rapidrop.
“My first impressions are of a high-quality business with an excellent reputation, strong fundamentals, and a talented team.
“This provides a fantastic platform to further enhance our operations and capitalise on the strong tailwinds for growth.
“BGF’s investment and support will enable us to remain focused on driving product innovation and expanding our global footprint.
“I look forward to working closely with them and the entire Rapidrop team to deliver the next chapter of the company’s success.”
UK ownership retained following founder legacy
Rapidrop was founded by Daniel Gill, who initially operated the business under the name Kestrel Fasteners.
Following Daniel Gill’s passing in 2017, the Gill family has continued to be involved in the business.
Dan Gill and Rebecca Park will retain a majority stake in Rapidrop and remain involved in the company’s operations.
According to the company, the family has supported the organisation’s expansion and strategic direction in recent years.
Since 2017, Rapidrop said it has doubled in size.
Advisory roles in the investment process
Legal, tax and financial advice for the transaction was provided by several firms.
On behalf of BGF, legal services were provided by Mills & Reeve, financial due diligence by WayPoint Change, and tax advice by Claritas.
Rapidrop was advised by Menzies on corporate finance and by Trowers & Hamlins on legal matters.
The management team was advised by Howes Percival.
BGF investment supports Rapidrop Global fire safety expansion: Summary
BGF has made a multi-million pound investment in Rapidrop Global, a fire safety product manufacturer based in Cambridgeshire.
The investment is intended to support international market growth, product development and leadership restructuring.
Rapidrop designs and manufactures fire sprinkler systems and infrastructure components.
The company is accredited by global regulatory bodies and supplies over 80 countries.
BGF said the fire suppression market is expanding due to regulation, urbanisation and global construction.
The investment deal was led by BGF’s Central & East team, which also supported two other companies in the past year.
Chris Shelley has been appointed CEO and Richard Whiting has been appointed Chair.
Shelley said BGF’s involvement will support innovation and international scaling.
The Gill family retains majority ownership and remains involved in the business.
Rapidrop was originally founded by Daniel Gill under the name Kestrel Fasteners.
Advisors involved in the deal included Mills & Reeve, WayPoint Change, Claritas, Menzies, Trowers & Hamlins, and Howes Percival.