RSK reports second takeover of 2008
Highly acquisitive RSK Group has completed its second takeover in as many weeks by adding Stats to its stable as it aims to become the UK's number one environmental support services firm.
The Cheshire and Manchester-based group acquired six companies in 2007 and has already bought Building Sciences earlier this month. The group, headquartered in Helsby, employs 880 staff in 39 offices around the world.
Formed in 1974, Stats initially focused on structural investigations and materials consultancy, rising to prominence as Britain's motorway expansion programme peaked during the 1970s and 1980s, before diversifying to offer a range of environmental services.
The Hertfordshire-based company has provided input to such headline-grabbing projects as the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, the M74 Carlisle to Glasgow motorway and Bluewater.
Stats managing director Fergus Collie said: "Companies are changing the way they procure services and we needed to adapt to that. We are an open-minded, innovative company, but our size was restricting our opportunities further up the 'food chain'."
The deal adds 30 asbestos experts to RSK creating one of the largest and most experienced asbestos risk management providers in the UK. Both companies also have dedicated Legionella risk assessment teams.
RSK group chairman and owner, Alan Ryder, commented: "This is the second largest acquisition in RSK's history and represents a major statement of intent for us moving forward. We've strengthened our capabilities across the board and brought in services that we have never had before. Stats will be instrumental to our continued growth and success."
