Compass Group exits EPIC Systems to VINCI Energies

In the United States, specifically in St. Louis, Missouri, on May 20, 2025, Compass Group Equity Partners announced its successful exit from EPIC Systems, a company specializing in industrial and process automation solutions. The exit marks a significant milestone, as EPIC Systems transitions to VINCI Energies, a global leader in energy, transportation, and communications infrastructure. This partnership began in 2018 and led to substantial growth and success over the years. Under the leadership of CEO Mike Higgins, appointed in 2020, EPIC Systems focused on enhancing its operations through the strategic hiring of key personnel, including a CFO in Laurie Phillips in 2022. Such initiatives enabled the company to refine its sales approach, broaden its service offerings, and develop a stronger market presence. As EPIC Systems powered through new geographies, new end markets were identified and existing ones deepened, indicating a proactive strategy in diversifying their portfolio. The collaboration with Compass Group proved beneficial, allowing EPIC Systems to fine-tune its operations and increase both revenue and EBITDA throughout the partnership. Ryan Roepke, Director at Compass Group Equity Partners, highlighted the company's success and expressed pride in how Compass Group aided EPIC Systems in evolving into an opportunity-focused organization that complements its technical expertise. This follows the operational and strategic improvements that had taken place during the investment, illustrating the efficacy of the thesis-driven approach used by Compass Group. The move to join VINCI Energies represents a promising new chapter for EPIC Systems, with expectations for continued growth and thriving potential as it integrates into a larger global operation. The successful advisory roles provided by Bundy Group in investment banking, Armanino in tax due diligence, and Wipfli in financial due diligence further support this transition, alongside legal counsel from Polsinelli. This exit serves as a vivid example of the synergies that can be created when strategic partnerships are effectively executed, laying the groundwork for further advancements within the industrial automation industry.