Sedex explains that with LDC's input, it will further invest in developing its platform, tools and professional services, leveraging the power of data and technology for its members’ benefit and fuelling its international expansion plans.
Jon Hancock, CEO of Sedex, believes that with the scale and complexity of challenges that the company's members face, more sophisticated solutions are required that adapt across the breadth of ESG areas and the depth of their entire supply chains. He is determined that Sedex will provide these.
The company also plans to establish a Special Purpose Trust to maintain its founding purpose and stated mission, and to make global supply chains more socially and environmentally sustainable.
The transaction was led by investment director Joe Tager, investment manager Dan Gluckman and investment executive Francesca Speke at LDC in London.
In addition to this, LDC is backing the existing management team, with Joe Tager, LDC CEO Toby Rougier, and software expert David Murray joining Sedex’s board as non-executive directors, while Steven Esom will continue as Sedex’s Chair.
Esom, who is currently the Chair of the Sedex board, says: "Over the last 20 years, Sedex has provided businesses with the tools to build ever-greater knowledge of the places, people, and practices in their supply chains. Our members now look to us to aid them across the wider sustainability agenda. With LDC, we can do this faster and more effectively. We are delighted to partner with them - it is fantastic to see Sedex's potential recognised in this way."
Tager further adds: "Sedex’s longstanding experience in developing robust, site-level tools, including the world-renowned SMETA audit, makes it perfectly positioned to help companies meet these sustainability-related demands, and embed responsible practices deeper into supply chains. We look forward to supporting the management team as they build on this success in the next stage of their journey."
LDC highlights that its commitment to embedding ESG performance across all levels of its business ranges from ensuring its own operations are net zero by 2030, to working with its portfolio company management teams to successfully transition to a low carbon economy and driving diversity in the UK’s future business leaders through its partnership with The Prince’s Trust.
