Technical insight, human touch
“Before we invest in a company, we want to really understand the product and the people behind it.”
Nicolas Michielsens, Managing Partner
Strong industrial family
Bernard was a shareholder and member of the Board of Directors of Unilin. He held management positions in the company for 40 years, as Deputy Managing Director, and then for the last 15 years, when Unilin became part of the Mohawk Group, as CEO of the Unilin Group. Legia is the Latin name for Leie, reflecting Unilin’s roots in the flax industry on the banks of the gently flowing Leie river. Unilin’s very first product was a strong flax chipboard. This strength and a thoughtful approach continue to define Legia Capital: taking the time to consider the strategic aspects of investment, without any pressure to seek a quick sale. But also reacting decisively when an opportunity arises.
Passion for technology and innovation
Focusing on the product or service offered by a company is a priority for Legia Capital. “We share a passion for technology and innovation. Before we invest in a company, we want to really understand the product and the people behind it,” explains Nicolas Michielsens, Managing Partner at Legia Capital. “How is your product made? How does your business model work? What opportunities do you see for innovation? Those are key questions when meeting a potential portfolio company.”
Acquisition is a two-way street
“An acquisition is always an emotional experience – especially if it’s a family business with no successor,” Thomas Munghen, Investment Manager, points out. “They first have to go through a process of accepting and letting go – you should never forget that. In our portfolio companies, we’re usually the first non-family shareholder and we try to ensure that the companies themselves hardly notice the difference.”
Entrepreneurial drive
As a business leader, you have to have the ability to keep moving forward. Dream big. And when you think it’s time to start a new chapter, you should be able to turn the page knowing that your company is in good hands.
Our Legia Capital team shares that entrepreneurial drive. Each individual member’s talents combine to make us a versatile partner with the ability to make your organisation more robust and guide your business as it grows.
On-site stories
But don’t just take our word for it. These company managers turned to us to help them realise their dream of expanding their business.
