Science Group raises stake in Ricardo to 12%

LONDON - Science Group plc has increased its shareholding in Ricardo plc to approximately 12%, an acquisition that marks a significant transaction under the AIM Rules for Companies. This move comes as Ricardo, a British science and technology firm with over a century of heritage, faces a period of financial challenge, with its share price at near-decade lows and recent performance reflecting downgraded earnings and weaker-than-expected cash conversion.

The interim results for Ricardo, released on March 5, 2025, showed consistency with the January trading update but highlighted the need for a strategic review. Science Group, known for creating shareholder value in similar consultancy/systems businesses, has been in active dialogue with Ricardo regarding its strategic investment.

Ricardo’s financials for the year ended June 30, 2024, reported a profit before tax of $4.3 million and gross assets totaling $428.8 million. The recent weeks have seen a material change in Ricardo’s shareholder base, suggesting that investors are looking for a turnaround strategy that aligns corporate goals with shareholder interests.

Science Group’s increased stake in Ricardo underscores its potential influence on the future direction of the company. The Group has a history of engagement in strategic investments and may further adjust its shareholding in Ricardo as it sees fit.

This development is based on a press release statement and follows the AIM Rules’ requirement for disclosure of substantial transactions. As Ricardo evaluates its strategic options, the market will be watching closely to see how Science Group’s involvement might steer the company towards a more favorable financial position.

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