Meraki Capital has completed its third and fourth acquisitions of the year with the purchase of Swindon-headquartered Smart Recruitment and Wise Recruitment.
The dual transaction brings both businesses – with further offices in Yeovil, Plymouth and Exeter – into the Meraki Group and secures the future of 100s of permanent and temporary staff following a period of significant trading pressure. With the backing of Meraki Capital and a committed £1 million growth facility, the businesses are now positioned for long-term stability and expansion.
Following completion, Bradley Wood, Managing Director of Magnus Search – part of the Meraki Capital group since summer 2025 – will work closely with the leadership teams at Smart and Wise to oversee their transition into the Magnus brand, while supporting operational development and future growth.
Nick Gordon, Founder of Meraki Capital, said: “Both Smart and Wise Recruitment were facing significant challenges in the current economic climate, which continues to place pressure on entrepreneurial recruitment businesses across the UK. Rising employment costs, including National Insurance and PAYE changes, have had a substantial impact on the sector.
“However, this is a positive story. These are fundamentally strong businesses with excellent client relationships and real market opportunity. With the right backing and investment, they have a clear path forward. There is opportunity ahead for high-quality recruitment firms that are prepared to embrace strategic support and fresh capital.”
Keith Robinson, managing director of Smart and Wise Recruitment, commented: “This has been an incredibly challenging period for our business. With Meraki’s investment, we are confident the company will continue to thrive for many years to come. Together with Janet Robinson, our company’s strategic director, we have successfully navigated two previous recessions and emerged stronger each time.
“Now is the moment for our team, under Brad and Nick’s guidance, to build on that legacy and move confidently into the next chapter of recruitment.”
The acquisition reinforces Meraki Capital’s strategy of investing in high-quality recruitment businesses and partnering closely with management teams to deliver sustainable, long-term growth. The group’s model includes operational support, access to advanced recruitment technology and delivery capability through its South African outsourcing operation.
Bradley Wood, Managing Director of Magnus Search, added: “We are building a group of recruitment businesses that are stronger together – with access to investment, shared expertise and operational scale. Many recruitment firms are facing tough conditions right now. This is the time to seek strategic backing if it’s needed.
“Smart and Wise will transition under the Magnus brand, and we’re excited about the opportunities ahead for the team and their clients.”
Meraki Capital continues to actively seek partnerships with recruitment businesses requiring financial investment, strategic growth support or access to enhanced operational resources. Business owners interested in exploring opportunities are encouraged to contact Nick Gordon directly.
