RSK buys engineering firm RoC

Multidisciplinary firm RSK Group has bought Manchester-based civil and structural engineer RoC Consulting, its sixth acquisition in 2020. 

The acquisition, for which the price was undisclosed, is part of RSK’s diversification strategy and is the company’s third such deal in its current financial year. 

The diversification push has seen RSK acquire 36 businesses since 2016, made possible through a £315m debt financing package from investor Ares Capital Europe in December 2018. 

RoC, which employs 20 people, provides advice to the property and construction sectors on engineering and environmental matters. 

All of RoC’s staff will be retained under the terms of the deal, and managing director Rory O’Connor will continue to lead RoC as it merges with RSK’s geosciences and engineering division. 

RoC provided geotechnical investigations, as well as civil and structural engineering design services, for the recently installed cycle and pedestrian bridge at Airport City in Manchester. 

Other notable projects the company has worked on include the 370,000 sq ft No. 1 Spinningfields, and the Royal Horticultural Society’s 62-hectare Bridgewater gardens in Worsley, Salford, due to open next year.  

Alan Ryder, RSK’s chief executive and founder, said: “Our strategy of diversification and growth is helping RSK to navigate the coronavirus crisis, and our focus remains on creating a stronger, more resilient business. 

“In RoC Consulting, we have found a respected business that shares our vision and values.” 

RoC’s O’Connor said: “We see this as a huge opportunity to leverage our brand with the support of the RSK Group, giving us access to a wide range of services we can offer our clients, thereby providing cross-selling opportunities.”