SAV Credit Limited (“SAV”), a provider of credit cards and financial services products to consumers who are overlooked by mainstream financial services providers, is pleased to announce that it has secured an investment of up to £25 million by Electra Private Equity PLC (“Electra”) managed by Electra Partners Limited (“Electra Partners”). The investment, together with the simultaneous closing of a new debt facility of £115 million led by Credit Suisse, will support the next stage of SAV’s development. 

SAV’s lead product, the aqua MasterCard, is aimed at the under-served market often overlooked by mainstream providers and which represents some 20% of the UK adult population (approximately 10 million people). SAV accesses this market through a series of innovative partnerships with other organisations that have access to these consumers through their own distribution networks. With this transaction, SAV will have the foundations in place to achieve its objective of building a book of more than £300 million in the next few years. 

Founded in 2001 by Richard Langstaff, the company is managed by a specialist team from within the credit card industry, and is built around information-based risk management techniques. Since 2002 Palamon Capital Partners LP, together with its co-investors Morgan Stanley Alternative Investment Partners, have invested in SAV to finance the initial account origination and testing phases of the business. Since its inception SAV has developed its own unique underwriting, servicing and marketing models to serve its target market, which is different from that of the standard prime issuers.

David Symondson, Director of Electra Partners, said: “In line with recent statements by Electra that it now has more funds available, we are delighted to be making this investment in SAV. This transaction draws on our previously successful involvement with Premium Credit, an insurance premium financing business in the UK. We have been highly impressed with the SAV management team, their strong focus on risk management, and the Company’s unique positioning in an under-penetrated marketplace.”

Richard Langstaff, SAV Chief Executive Officer, said: “The investment by Electra, a leading player in the UK private equity market, is further validation of the success of the business model SAV has developed, and allows us to rapidly grow the Company. Electra adds further strength to an already blue chip investor base including Palamon Capital Partners and Morgan Stanley Alternative Investment Partners. 

Daan Knottenbelt, Partner, Palamon Capital Partners, said: "SAV has made tremendous progress in establishing itself as the leading independent player in the non-standard market. We are delighted that the Company has been able to attract Electra, a strong new external shareholder, to support the next phase of its development in the UK credit card market, an area with great potential."

Citigroup Corporate and Investment Banking acted as placement agent to SAV on this transaction.

Press Enquiries

Greenbrook Communications

1 Vere Street,
London, W1G 0DF
www.greenbrookadvisory.com

View all media contacts