Manchester private equity group Palatine has taken a majority stake in an expanding AI data and tech specialist as it makes three key acquisitions.
Palatine is backing the growth of London’s “Experience Intelligence” firm Atombit Group, which was founded by data analytics and innovation specialists Paolo Righetti, Luca Pepere and Gabriele Albani.
Atombit aims to use data analytics and AI to help clients to operate more efficiently. Last year the group acquired European data consultancy Amplify Analytix and, now it has secured Palatine’s backing for its M&A strategy, the group has acquired Ƶ-based J2 Reliance and Profusion and Bulgaria-based company DWise. Atombit today has 150 consultants and data scientists in Europe and India, serving more than 100 large international firms.
Paolo Righetti, CEO of Atombit, said: "Atombit was founded to challenge the status quo in CX (customer experience), EX (employee experience) and experience intelligence by using technology to unlock innovative ways for businesses to create value, increase profitability and gain a competitive edge in an ever-changing business landscape.
“In Palatine we have an experienced and collaborative partner who share our vision and ambition for the group, and we are very excited to be working with them."
Andy Strickland, partner and head of tech services at Palatine, said: "We are thrilled to be partnering with the dynamic and ambitious team at Atombit to help shape what we believe will be a category-defining business in the AI and experience intelligence space.
"The market today is polarised. At one end, there are niche agencies offering fragmented, point-specific solutions. At the other, sprawling consultancies deliver scale but often lack agility, innovation, or a sharp focus on ROI.
“Atombit is different. It combines deep experience, exceptional talent, and a proven ability to design, execute, and scale transformational solutions across the entire customer and employee experience lifecycle. It doesn’t just compete. It redefines the space by solving problems others can’t, inventing new solutions where none exist, and delivering results that matter.
“We are delighted to be supporting the team as they build a world-class platform for growth. The onward strategy includes organic growth, cross-selling across the group’s existing client base, and pursuing further strategic M&A to extend capabilities, deepen expertise, and expand geographical presence. This is an incredibly exciting opportunity to help shape the future of a challenger brand with global ambition."
Following the investment Mr Strickland and Palatine’s managing partner Gary Tipper will be joining Atombit’s board. The Palatine investment team included Danielle Garland and Shiyu Pan. It was was advised by Gateley (legal); K3 (financial due diligence); RSM (tax structuring); Armstong (commercial due diligence); Garwood (operations due diligence); Stratton HR (HRl due diligence); Clearwater (buyside support) and Lockton (insurance due diligence).
Don't miss the latest news and analysis with our regular North West newsletters – sign up here for free
