CAN Geotechnical acquired by RSK

RSK and CAN join forces - what you should know

Cheshire-based environmental consulting and services firm RSK has continued its aggressive growth strategy by acquiring UK geotechnical and engineering contractor CAN Geotechnical Ltd (CAN) for an undisclosed sum.

This marks RSK’s 11th acquisition in just 19 months, supported by a £140 million funding package secured from Permira Debt Managers.

About CAN: ground engineering and structural maintenance expertise

CAN, with a 250-strong workforce, specialises in ground engineering, structural installation, and maintenance within the construction and civil engineering sectors across the UK. The company operates out of offices in Kent, Chesterfield, and Bristol. In the financial year ending February 28, 2017, CAN recorded a revenue of £13.3 million and an operating profit of £1.2 million.

The acquisition sees CAN join RSK’s geosciences and engineering division, with founders Neil Foster and Andy Wingfield continuing in their leadership roles. CAN’s primary focus is on geotechnical projects, which contribute around 70% of its revenue, particularly in slope and retaining wall stabilization, as well as rockfall protection measures. These services are increasingly in demand due to the growing number of linear transport infrastructure projects entering construction phases.

The remaining portion of CAN’s business involves structural repairs, construction, inspections, testing, and maintenance, often carried out in challenging environments.

A new chapter for CAN via M&A

CAN Managing Director Andy Wingfield said: "CAN’s acquisition by RSK is a fantastic springboard for growth that brings together RSK’s strengths in the early investigation and design stages of projects with CAN’s track record in construction delivery across a wide range of sectors.

"We are delighted that in RSK, we have found a business where our fantastic staff will not only have security but also exciting new opportunities as the company expands. Being part of a larger group with such a diverse range of complementary services provides the perfect launchpad for the next phase in CAN’s development."

RSK’s growth strategy

RSK’s acquisition of CAN is part of its broader strategy to expand its capabilities across multiple sectors. Since April 2017, RSK has made 11 acquisitions, including prominent companies like Acies, KMGP, Cole Jarman, Ian Farmer Associates, Up and Under Group, and Central Alliance, among others.

RSK has seen substantial growth, with its workforce now numbering over 1,600 employees. The company generated a revenue of £94 million in the year ending March 2018, reflecting an 11.9% increase from the previous year.

Douglas Edmunds advised the shareholders of CAN Holdings Ltd on the sale of their business.

Client feedback

"When we commissioned someone to take our company to market, it required a huge leap of faith, entrusting the business representing our lifetimes’ work to a third party.

"We worked very closely with Doug over the following 18 months as potential buyers were identified, interest was established, initial meetings set up, offers were invited and negotiated, terms and ultimately successfully concluded the sale of our business.

"Doug ran the whole project with a calm efficiency which rapidly won our confidence, as well as that of the various interested parties we spoke to. While market conditions at the time meant we put the project on hold for some months, Doug...pursued with a stoic determination right up until the day of signing.

"I would have no hesitation in recommending Doug for a role requiring a combination of charm and gentle persuasion, underpinned by a gritty determination to succeed. Faced with such a challenge, I know Doug will deliver.

Neil Foster, MD

CAN Geotechnical

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When we commissioned someone to take our company to market, it required a huge leap of faith, entrusting the business representing our lifetimes’ work to a 3rd party. We worked very closely with Doug over the following 18 months as potential buyers were identified, interest was established, initial meetings set up, offers were invited and negotiated, terms and ultimately successfully concluded the sale of our business. Doug ran the whole project with a calm efficiency which rapidly won our confidence, as well as that of the various interested parties we spoke to. Whilst market conditions at the time meant we put the project on hold for some months, Doug never lost sight of the ultimate goal of securing the sale, which he pursued with a stoic determination right up until the day of signing. I would have no hesitation in recommending Doug for a role requiring a combination of charm and gentle persuasion, underpinned by a gritty determination to succeed. Faced with such a challenge, I know Doug will deliver.

Neil Foster, CAN UK

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