In 1984, a small but rapidly growing computer and software company, Datatronic, was presented with the opportunity to acquire Victor Technologies: a US computer company which was, at that time, in Chapter 11. The acquisition would enable Datatronic to achieve greater scale and, at the price level discussed, generate substantial strategic and financial advantages. Lacking the necessary financial resources, Datatronic approached Proventus for advice and support. Proventus concluded that the combined entity would become a strong competitor in a fast-growing market.

Proventus guaranteed the financing needed for the acquisition of Victor Technologies by underwriting an equity offering, thereby becoming one of the largest shareholders with 11% ownership.

In addition to providing Datatronic with access to capital, Proventus supported Datatronic in its transformation from a small entrepreneurial company to a truly international group. This required stronger management and the introduction of more professional management structures. In order to effect these changes, Proventus agreed to transfer one of its proven executives to Datatronic as chief executive officer, working closely with the founder/chairman of the company.

Between 1984 and 1989, Datatronic’s sales increased from SEK 230 million to SEK 1.5 billion. The key concepts underlying the group’s success were substantial improvement in manufacturing operations via extensive component production outsourcing; product changes; and the introduction of products with new features. Datatronic was one of the first computer firms to introduce a true laptop. It also introduced the mini tower and the removable hard disk drive. The company was able to build up a vast network of retail outlets, and Datatronic was a major factor in creating a mass market for its industry. At the end of the 1980s, Datatronic/Victor Technologies was one of the five largest computer manufacturers in Europe.

Proventus increased its initial ownership stake by acquiring shares from the founding entrepreneur and main owner of Datatronic and through open market purchases. By 1989, Proventus owned 68% of the outstanding shares.

During 1989, a Proventus analysis showed that increased competition was resulting in computer hardware becoming less technology-oriented and more price-sensitive. Therefore, Datatronic required additional scale to stay competitive. This was achieved by year’s end, when Victor Technologies and Micronic, the PC and handheld subsidiaries of Datatronic, were sold to U.S.-based Tandy Corp.