Charles Russell Speechlys advises on hat-trick of AllBright deals

Charles Russell Speechlys is pleased to advise AllBright on a hat-trick of deals. AllBright is a new fund that invests in the UK’s best female-led businesses, from start-ups to established companies through its innovative business model, combining an angel network and its own portfolio companies, as well as providing access to vital business resources and learning via its academy.

Recent research shows that companies with women in leadership positions deliver strong returns, yet the majority of funding is directed at male-led companies with only 10% of global venture capital funds directed at female-led businesses [1]. AllBright’s passion for unearthing all areas of outstanding female talent is reflected in the diverse nature of this group of investments – into Fluidly Limited, Piccolo Foods Limited and Distylled Limited, each specialising in SME cash flow management, organic baby food and digital marketing respectively.  We worked closely with AllBright to understand the strategic goals behind each investment to ensure the deal terms we negotiated aligned with their objectives.

Speaking of the deal, Tiffany Young, Investment Manager at AllBright, stated: “Malcolm and his team were extremely helpful – their hands on approach was perfect. Most of the companies were new to the process and they were able to guide them through, adapting their approach to support early stage funding accordingly.”

Malcolm MacDougall, Lead Partner commented: “We would like to congratulate AllBright on these recent investments and have enjoyed being part of the team supporting female-led innovative businesses. AllBright have seen a real opportunity here and we look forward to seeing the fund grow under these recent investments.”

AllBright recently launched their first festival in June 2017 in London and Manchester, called FoundHER: Festival of Female Founders, with inspirational talks from some of the leading women in business, including Liz Earle and Sherry Coutu, as well as technical training sessions. Malcolm MacDougall and the team presented on 'The Legal Essentials of a Start-Up’. Please visit the festival website for more information.

For more information, please contact: Malcolm MacDougall: Head of Private Equity on +44 (0)20 7427 4544 or malcolm.macdougall@crsblaw.com

[1] Source: The CrunchBase Women in Venture Report (19th April 2016)