Brian Aitken

The firm, which was founded by John and James Pirrie, said the uncertainty caused by COVID-19 and Brexit made 2020 an especially difficult year to assess and complete new deals.

Nevertheless, Brian Aitken, Nevis partner said he was encouraged for deal activity the firm engages with business owners across Scotland who are feeling ‘a bit scunnered by the last year’ and are thinking about taking a step back.

The firm said throughout 2020 it saw a ‘good flow’ of opportunities with many people using its explorers scheme to introduce new businesses.

In its review of 2020, Nevis noted that it provided backing for existing portfolio businesses in 2020.

These included the Glasgow-based tank cleaning business Merkland Tank and Cumbria-based engineering firm Astec Precision.

Nevis said: “The virus has not changed our view that both businesses have bright futures and so, despite an adverse impact on current year profits, we continued to focus on building each business for the long term.”

Nevis invested in increasing capacity and in staffing at both firms. It noted: “We believe that investing in people and assets before you ‘need’ them is a prerequisite for sustainable growth.”