Evelyn Partners in Bristol has advised on the sale of Method4 Limited, a specialist in agile software development and content management systems (CMS), to Aspire Systems, a leading global technology company.

This strategic acquisition significantly expands Aspire’s delivery capabilities in Europe, with the new centre becoming its second-largest European delivery hub after Gdansk in Poland. The acquisition also strengthens Aspire’s footprint in the UK, especially within the public sector.

Founded in 2005, Method4 is based in Cardiff and has cultivated a reputation for excellence and agility over the past two decades. As a Microsoft Partner and an Umbraco Gold Partner, Method4 brings substantial expertise and a commitment to quality to the table.

Method4’s 50-strong team will join Aspire’s UK workforce, enhancing its service delivery and client engagement. This marks Aspire Systems’ third acquisition in Europe, reflecting a deliberate focus on growing its European footprint and fortifying its UK client base.

The corporate finance team at the Bristol office of Evelyn Partners, the leading integrated wealth management and professional services group, acted as lead advisor on the transaction, led by corporate finance director Paul Stagg.

Gowri Shankar Subramanian, chairman and CEO of Aspire Systems said: “We are thrilled to welcome Method4 into the Aspire family. This partnership allows us to bolster our presence in the UK and the wider European market, enhancing our delivery capabilities and service offerings. Our shared vision, strategic goals, and cultural alignment make this integration a natural fit, promising significant value for our clients and employees.”

Christian Coates, managing director of Method4 said: “Joining forces with Aspire Systems presents an incredible opportunity for Method4 to broaden our market reach and tackle more ambitious projects.

“This acquisition not only strengthens our business prospects but also supports our commitment to providing a vibrant and rewarding work environment for our colleagues. Both companies share a deep focus on employee well-being, exceptional client partnerships, technological leadership, and fostering a collaborative workplace culture.

“The team at Evelyn Partners, led by Paul Stagg, managed the transaction from start to finish, including the identification of Aspire Systems as the preferred counterparty. Paul’s outside-the-box thinking, patience and unwavering commitment was pivotal to achieving this result, and I recommend him highly for any tech entrepreneurs considering how to exit their business.”

“This is the latest in a series of UK-based technology companies that we have sold to international buyers, reinforcing the high levels of demand from overseas and the strength of our international network,” says Paul Stagg.

“Retaining the local team and high-quality services that the customers value was crucial to the founders of Method4, and I am delighted we were able to structure a transaction to achieve this.”

Legal advice to Method4 was provided by Fieldfisher LLP.