Edition Capital acquires insurance broker SMI

London-based entertainment professional services group Edition Capital Limited has announced the acquisition of insurance broker Sebastian Mclean International (SMI).

SMI has delivered tailored insurance solutions to high-profile clients including Hungary’s Sziget Festival, as well as the likes of Endemol, BAFTA and 19 Entertainment.

The acquisition will enhance Edition’s suite of venture capital investment, corporate finance, and advisory services.

“SMI could not have found a better home than within the Edition Capital Group,” says SMI founder Mark Owen. “We are thrilled to join a company that shares our dedication to delivering industry-leading services to the entertainment sector. I look forward to working closely with Edition on the next phase of growth for SMI.”

“This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for Edition as we continue to expand our services and bring new businesses into our group”

Edition’s partners bring more than 80 years of combined experience in the entertainment industry, including management of major entertainment businesses such as 19 Entertainment, Cream Group, Superstruct Entertainment and Impresario Festivals. To date, the team has raised and deployed over £500 million of capital across the sector.

Recent investments made by Edition include Mainstage Festivals (Snowboxx Festival and Kala Festival), Assembled Gala (Gala and Rally festivals), Watch House Coffee, Little Lion Entertainment (international immersive experience company behind The Crystal Maze Live Experience, Pacman Live and Chaos Karts) and Incipio Group (London F&B venue operators).

“Mark and his team have built a fantastic business that puts clients at the heart of everything they do – something that Edition has always looked to do,” says Harry Heartfield, co-founder and senior partner of Edition. “This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for Edition as we continue to expand our services and bring new businesses into our group.”

As it enters its 10th year, Edition says is focused on expanding the scale and reach of the group through strategic acquisitions and partnerships with like-minded firms. Future investments will “strengthen professional services tailored to entertainment businesses, while direct investments in high-growth entertainment companies will leverage the support of the wider Edition Group”.

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