Shifting trends in overseas UK business investment
Overseas investment into UK businesses is nothing new. At Azets, around 10% of our deal flow involves cross-border activity. Historically, much of these multi-jurisdictional mergers & acquisitions (M&A) have come from the United States - supported by deep pools of American capital and, in recent years, favourable exchange rates that have made UK assets particularly attractive.
A growing presence of Middle Eastern investors
Over the past 18–24 months, however, there’s been a shift in the origin of funds. Increasingly, we’ve been spending time in conversation with Middle Eastern family offices - an experience that has been both insightful and refreshing.
Like most international investors we speak with, Middle Eastern investors emphasise the importance of engaging directly with owner-founders and senior management. What stands out, however, is the consistency of their focus: a passion for businesses with strong, defendable earnings and a preference for resilient sectors such as healthcare, education, logistics, and heritage consumer brands.
Long-term vision
What differentiates many of these investors is their long-term perspective. Middle Eastern family offices frequently stress partnership, patience, and stewardship. Their approach is centred on:
- Growth in partnership – scaling businesses alongside management rather than replacing them
- Preserving identity – maintaining brand, culture, and legacy as businesses expand
- Shared control – aligning governance and decision-making to build mutual trust
This isn’t about a quick flip or opportunistic exit. It’s about co-authoring growth stories with business owners and management teams, with respect for the journey that has already been built.
For UK business owners and advisers considering capital options, this presents a compelling opportunity. Significant pools of capital remain active in global markets, but success lies in knowing where to look, how best to present your business, and - just as importantly - what (and who) to be cautious of.
We’re here to help
If you’d like to explore how these evolving capital relationships might align with your ambitions, get in touch with a member of our specialist Corporate Finance team.
