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Private equity firm Cinven is reportedly preparing a bid for funeral provider Pure Cremation in a deal expected to value the business at more than £500m, according to Sky News.
Cinven, which previously owned fashion retailer Kurt Geiger, is understood to be among several private equity firms submitting offers this week for the Andover-based company.
Investment bank Houlihan Lokey is overseeing the sale, with insiders suggesting the process could value the firm between £500m and £700m.
Current owner Epiris, which bought Pure Cremation from its founders in 2023, is expected to select a preferred bidder before the end of the year.
Founded in 2015 by Bryan and Catherine Powell, Pure Cremation has grown rapidly by catering to demand for so-called direct cremations – simplified services without mourners present.
The company is now led by former SunLife Insurance chief executive Dean Lamble, and also offers pre-paid funeral plans, which it is understood to view as a key growth area.
Pure Cremation operates what is reported to be the UK’s busiest crematorium, in Andover, Hampshire. The rise in non-religious funerals has driven demand for lower-cost alternatives such as those offered by the company.
Cinven has been approached for comment.
