Debrett’s delivers sale of major private pregnancy scanning group

Debrett’s has advised the shareholders of Meet Your Miracle, an award-winning pregnancy scanning business that offers a range of ultrasound scans from numerous sites in the UK. The business has been sold to a private investment group led by serial investor, Simon Freer, who will Chair the business on behalf of the new shareholders. 

Founded in 2003 by Lucy and John Dolly, Meet Your Miracle operates a portfolio of scanning studios offering a range of prenatal scans and wellbeing checks for expectant mothers. The scanning service is complemented by a product range of mementos and recordings of the scans performed. Its team comprises radiographers, nurses, midwife sonographers and qualified health professionals all working to provide a leading experience-based service. 

With a shared vision of supporting and reassuring mothers and supporting family members, this deal sees Lucy and John partner with Simon to deliver a seamless transition to all involved with the business. Simon will lead an ambitious roll out programme to open new studios across the UK. This growth will be part funded by FDC who are backing Simon and the existing wider team with a flexible funding package to be deployed for expansion. 

John and Lucy Dolly said: “After some consideration we chose Debrett’s to execute the sale of our business. They came highly recommended and the advice to work with them was not misplaced. We found the sale of our business was a process far more complex than we had anticipated and are thankful we chose such an experienced and professional company. Mark Selby and the wider team ensured the process was completed to the highest standard. The support we received was professional and well led. Also of note was the support we received on a personal level which we remain grateful for given that the sale was of a company we had been so personally invested in for many years. We are excited to partner with Simon Freer and the investment group purchasing the company and look forward to future growth and ongoing success.”

Simon Freer added: “I am delighted to partner with John and Lucy. I am acutely aware of the responsibility involved with Meet Your Miracle. I am determined to uphold the values that have meant the business has been so successful – principally the compassion and care shown to all customers and the quality behind the services offered. It is a privilege to now lead this business, and I hope to take it to another level of success for all concerned.”

Kathryn Light, Investment Manager at FDC said: “We wish Simon every success in this next chapter. His impressive track record combined with the strength of this opportunity gives us every confidence in what lies ahead. We were thoroughly impressed with Simon and his team throughout the transaction and are proud to be part of this partnership. This marks another great investment for FDC and a clear example of how we can support ambitious UK businesses.”

Mark Selby, Partner at Debrett’s said: “This deal is a great example of what sets Debrett’s apart: our ability to combine sector knowledge with reach into both the private wealth and institutional funding worlds. This ultimately delivers the best possible solution for each project. The sale of Meet Your Miracle attracted significant interest from our network in these arenas and the group fronted by Simon proved to be the best fit. We wish the very best to everyone involved with the business.”

Legal advice to the sellers was provided by Mark Gibson at DWF Law LLP.

Other advisers included: 

Arnold Hill & Co, who performed Financial and Tax Due Diligence and provided Corporate Finance advice to the Buyers

Browne Jacobson LLP, legal advisers to the Buyers

Gateley plc, legal advisers to FDC