HMT LLP advised YFM Equity Partners on their investment in fast-growing film and TV visual effects company, Outpost VFX.
Headquartered in Bournemouth, Outpost was founded in 2013 and has operations in Montréal and London as well as having recently opened a new studio in Los Angeles, enabling it to scale to hundreds of artists worldwide. The VFX house partners with global streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon, and Apple, and with major Hollywood studios including Universal. Recent high-profile projects include News of the World, The Alienist: Angel of Darkness and Watchmen.
The funding secured from YFM will help to accelerate the incorporation of machine learning within Outpost’s production management IP, further develop its training and career pathways IP and build out a unique global IT architecture.
The investment coincides with the appointment of Robin Shenfield to the Board as Chair. With decades of experience at the forefront of visual effects, Shenfield will leverage his vast experience in the creative sector to support Outpost as it pursues a sustainable growth strategy for 2021, beginning with its expansion into Los Angeles.
YFM Equity Partners has been investing in emerging businesses in the UK since 1982, with a focus on helping them to scale quickly. Its other investments in the film and broadcast sector include digital mastering and localisation provider Eikon and virtual production company Ncam.
HMT led by Paul Read and Andrew Reid undertook financial due diligence for YFM on this transaction.
“We are thrilled to be backing Outpost – a business which has demonstrated an ability to scale quickly through a focus on operations, culture and quality. Paul and Andrew provided great support throughout the transaction, getting into the detail of the business quickly and producing an insightful and thorough report. We look forward to working with HMT again on future transactions.”
– Adam Hart, Investment Manager at YFM
“We are delighted to have advised YFM on this round of funding which will enable Outpost to develop its infrastructure and proprietary platforms, as well as provide a solid base for further international growth. Coupled with recent key additions to the management team and Robin Shenfield joining as non-executive chair, Outpost can build on its expansion and development in the international VFX market. We look forward to working with YFM again in the future”.
– Paul Read
