No change in ownership or strategy at IVC Group

The Independent Vetcare Group has found itself having to issue a statement on the back of a report from Sky News suggesting that IVC’s owner was set to put it up for sale. The Sky News story said: “Sky News has learnt that Bath-headquartered Independent Vetcare Group is seeking offers in the coming weeks that would herald a change of ownership for more than 300 practices across the UK.” David Hillier, CEO at IVC, admitted that the group is possibly looking for an injection of financial backing, but it does not suggest that there would be any change to the company’s strategy or its ownership. In 2016, EQT became IVC’s main stakeholder following a two-year association with private equity firm Summit Partners.

Mr Hillier, said: “There is some current speculation IVC is potentially seeking additional funding. Given the phenomenal growth the company is experiencing, this is not particularly surprising and does not imply any change in ownership or strategy. For us this is very much business as usual. There is absolutely no change to the underlying business, to the current management team or to the long-term direction of the company. We will continue our strong growth, our investment in people, premises and processes in order to provide our stated aim of exceptional veterinary care.”