YFM Equity Partners: Why we invest in Liverpool

‍YFM Equity Partners is a regional private equity company and offering PE investment for businesses in Liverpool/North England. We asked Dan Freed to explain why Liverpool is such an attractive investment destination.

Why is the Liverpool City Region attracting increased attention from investors like YFM right now?‍

Liverpool has reached a point of real maturity. We’re seeing a depth of ambitious, operationally strong businesses that are increasingly tech-enabled and actively thinking about scale. That combination makes the region very attractive to long-term growth investors.

What does Liverpool’s tech and growth ecosystem offer today that perhaps wasn’t in place a few years ago?‍

There’s now a stronger pipeline of leadership teams, better technology capability and a more connected ecosystem. Businesses are no longer just starting out - many are preparing for their next phase of growth and international expansion.

What types of Liverpool-based businesses are you most keen to hear from?‍

We’re particularly interested in growth-stage businesses using technology to drive scale, efficiency and international reach, whether that’s through product development, operations, or go-to-market strategy.

At what point should founders start engaging with growth investors, even if they’re not ready to raise capital immediately?‍

As early as possible. We’re happy to engage before the timing is right, build relationships with founders, help them prepare and invest when the business is ready for its next chapter. We’re keen to help founders out by facilitating introductions and connecting them with the right people in the network.

What does “growth-ready” look like when you’re assessing a business in the region?‍

Typically, it means strong operational foundations, a capable leadership team and a clear ambition to scale — often supported by technology and a plan for expansion, whether domestically or internationally.

How important is technology in helping Liverpool companies scale efficiently and compete globally?‍

Technology is a critical enabler. It allows businesses to scale faster, operate more efficiently and reach international markets, all while remaining rooted in the region.

What made Protein Works a standout success story for YFM?‍

Protein Works combined ambitious founders with technology investment, operational excellence and long-term capital. That allowed the business to grow from a challenger brand into a global, multi-million-pound company.

What lessons can other Liverpool founders take from that journey?‍

That it’s possible to scale globally from Liverpool. With the right strategy, technology and investment partner, businesses don’t need to leave the region to achieve international success.

How realistic is it for businesses to scale internationally while staying headquartered in Liverpool?‍

Protein Works is proof that companies can build global reach while creating skilled jobs locally and investing in their operations within the region.

What role can growth capital play in creating skilled jobs and long-term economic impact locally?‍

Growth capital enables businesses to invest across their operations from technology and product development to fulfilment and international distribution which directly supports job creation and long-term regional growth.

We have identified a strong and diverse local talent pool and we believe this can be bolstered by graduates choosing to settle in the Liverpool area after completing their studies. Retaining this talent helps prevent brain drain, strengthens the local skills base and ensures that economic value generated through growth is reinvested within the regional economy.

Why is it important for YFM to support initiatives like the Northern Tech Awards?‍

Supporting the Northern Tech Awards reflects our commitment to championing ambition, celebrating innovation and shining a light on what’s being built across the North.

What is your message to ambitious Liverpool founders thinking about their next phase of growth?‍

If you’re building something ambitious in Liverpool and thinking about scaling, we would welcome a conversation. Capital is available and we want to be part of that journey.

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