Investment firm Capital A, active in both Belgium and the Netherlands, has acquired a majority stake in the East Flanders-based technology company ESC. With this partnership, ESC aims to meet the ever-growing demand for smart software solutions and IT specialists by leveraging Capital A’s financial backing and business expertise.
Founders Carine and Philippe Smet will remain on the board of directors, ensuring continuity, while the current management team will continue to oversee daily operations. The additional capital will fuel ESC’s journey toward further professionalization, driving both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.
ESC, with its 155 employees, specializes in Microsoft business software, modern workplace solutions, and e-business. As a seven-time Trends Gazelle award winner and Belgium’s top Microsoft Cloud Partner for Dynamics 365 Business Central, ESC has established itself as a trusted platform for the digital transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises. Following its 2020 acquisition of competitor SDE, ESC is now poised to take its next step as the go-to partner for SME digitalization in Belgium.
“A Partner for Progress”
“The digital transformation for SMEs is accelerating rapidly. With a strong partner like Capital A, we can further align our technology and consultancy offerings with both the evolving needs of our clients and the aspirations of our team members,” said Benny Van Hyfte, CEO of ESC.
Capital A’s Strategic Vision
Operating out of Antwerp and Amsterdam, Capital A invests in high-growth companies in Belgium and the Netherlands. Beyond financial investment, the firm provides access to a robust network, strategic and financial expertise, and hands-on support for initiatives like future acquisitions.
“Companies are increasingly aware of the importance of digital transformation. ESC’s expertise ensures that clients are fully supported throughout their journey,” said Robin Janssens, Investment Manager at Capital A. “We’ve been impressed by ESC’s growth trajectory and the value they deliver to their customers. Together with the Smet family, ESC’s leadership, and its talented team, we’re excited to drive the company’s next growth phase. This will include product development and targeted partnerships in neighboring countries to ensure we continue to exceed client expectations.”
A Collaborative Journey Forward
The shareholders of ESC were advised during the transaction by Oaklins KBC Securities and legally supported by Ace Law. Financial and tax due diligence was handled by Eight Advisory Benelux.
About Capital A
Capital A is a new investment firm with a long history. Since 1982, the team has been responsible for midmarket private equity at ABN AMRO under the name ABN AMRO Participaties. In 2018, the team became independent and rebranded as Capital A. Its mission remains unchanged: to invest in companies with clear growth potential—whether organic or through acquisitions—and to collaborate with management teams to drive a new growth phase. Capital A typically takes significant minority or small majority stakes, always partnering closely with leadership to achieve shared success.