UK fire safety manufacturer Rapidrop Global Ltd has landed a significant multi-million pound investment from BGF as it gears up for its next phase of global growth.
Headquartered in Cambridgeshire, Rapidrop is a leading designer and manufacturer of fire sprinkler heads and fire suppression system components used across commercial, residential and infrastructure projects. The company operates in more than 80 countries and is one of just five manufacturers worldwide – and the only independently owned UK-based provider – with key global accreditations from internationally recognised fire safety authorities.
BGF’s investment comes at a pivotal time for the fire suppression industry, which is experiencing rapid growth driven by tighter regulations, increased construction activity and rising global urbanisation. The sprinkler systems market alone is forecast to grow at more than 8% annually through to 2030, underpinned by growing demand for risk mitigation and building safety solutions.
Since 2017, Rapidrop has doubled in size and continues to expand its reach, reputation and product range. With BGF’s backing, the company plans to accelerate its international expansion, deepen its product development and strengthen its operational footprint. BGF will also provide strategic input through its investment network and sector expertise to support Rapidrop’s ambitions to scale.
The business was originally founded by Daniel Gill, who transformed it from its roots as Kestrel Fasteners in the 1980s into a recognised global player. Since his passing in 2017, the Gill family has continued to oversee Rapidrop’s growth journey. As part of the deal, family members Dan Gill and Rebecca Park will retain a majority stake in the business and remain actively involved.
To support this next phase, Rapidrop has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Chris Shelley as CEO. Shelley brings significant experience from his previous role as Chief Commercial Officer at environmental instrumentation firm ENVEA Group. Richard Whiting also joins as Chair to provide strategic oversight as the company scales.
Shelley said: “Rapidrop has built a fantastic reputation and a solid platform for growth, backed by a talented team and strong fundamentals. With BGF’s investment and strategic support, we are well placed to scale our product innovation and extend our international reach. I look forward to leading the team into this exciting next chapter.”
The deal was led by Mark Nunny and Elena Kovalikhina from BGF’s Central & East investment team, which has now completed three deals in the past 12 months including Signify Research and Miracle Design & Play.
Nunny added: “Rapidrop is a standout UK manufacturing business with a strong brand in a fast-growing, regulation-led market. Its international approvals, proprietary products and diversified customer base provide a robust foundation for long-term growth. We’re excited to support Chris and the team as they build on the company’s impressive momentum.”
With increased focus on fire safety and compliance globally, BGF’s investment places Rapidrop in a strong position to lead innovation and growth in the fire suppression sector.
Amy Ingham
Amy is a newly qualified journalist specialising in business journalism at Business Matters with responsibility for news content for what is now the UK’s largest print and online source of current business news.
