Our History

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best. Take IT finance, for example. In 1990 Syscap took the simple idea of spreading the cost of IT over its working life – and added some inspired thinking. The rest is history.

 

A flying start

Syscap began life in 1990 as a provider of finance and leasing solutions for IT equipment. Within two years, the company had a long-term strategic goal: to become the largest IT finance specialist in the UK.

With its innovative approach to IT acquisition, Syscap quickly became a major presence in the market and began to build its customer base through strategic alliances with key IT suppliers and manufacturers.

In 1997 Syscap took an active role in the government's National Grid for Learning. The alliance marked the beginning of the company's education initiative, which has seen Syscap become the UK's foremost finance specialist for schools, LEAs and colleges.

As recognition of Syscap's inventive approach grew, the company was granted full membership of the FLA. In 1998 Syscap was the UK's 48th fastest-growing company, according to the Sunday Times Fast Track 100.

Twenty-first century growth

In 2000 Syscap acquired the market-leading finance provider in the professions market. This new capability allowed the group to bring the benefits of IT finance to professional practices around the UK – and enabled Syscap to reach number 10 in the 2001 Sunday Times Profit Track 100.

The company continued to innovate in the provision of finance solutions in 2001, launching Syscap Direct, an online leasing resource allowing suppliers to obtain quotes and instant authorisation for customer deals.

In 2004 Syscap underwent a strategic review and rebranding exercise. This involved establishing a new vertical market focus, based on in-depth understanding of individual market sectors and their specific financial and IT issues. Syscap's new brand was designed to reflect its maturity and growth in the market.

In 2005 Syscap's continuing success was recognised with a regional Orange Award for Bright Business. Syscap also featured in two categories in the finals of the 2005 National Sales Awards and was awarded Investors In People status. The Syscap Academy, established in 2004, played a fundamental part in these accolades and continues to fuel career development at Syscap to this day.

Well-placed for future success


A new era in Syscap's successful history dawned in 2006 in the form of a funded management buyout, a deal that involved significant new investment from AnaCap Financial Partners LLP, a specialist private equity fund. Syscap's Chairman Lord Mitchell and founding director Sean Williams relinquished their respective positions, but maintained interest within the business. Philip White became Syscap CEO, Mark Gidge became Sales Director and Sean Read moved to the position of COO.

Syscap is now firmly established as the UK's number one independent IT finance provider. As you read this, thousands of UK organisations are using our innovative approach to finance to help bring their business goals to life.

If you're considering a loan, lease, HP, rental or other finance arrangement to help your organisation acquire IT (computer desktop, laptop or server hardware, software, training or services), talk to Syscap first.