Mott MacDonald’s QS arm buys transport specialist Needlemans
Franklin + Andrews, Mott MacDonald’s quantity surveying arm, has bought QS Needlemans for an estimated £1m in shares.
Needlemans, which specialises in the transport, utility and infrastructure sectors, had net assets of £726,362 in the year to 31 March 2007. Its 35 staff will relocate to F+A’s London office in the next three months.
Guy Leonard, F+A’s managing director, said the acquisition was in line with the group’s aim to expand into the aviation sector. “We want to enhance our capability and involvement in the aviation sector where Needlemans is very strong.”
Barry Trebes, managing director of Needlemans, said: “With Mott MacDonald’s financial strength behind us, we will be able to offer a more comprehensive service.”
Andrew Williams, F+A’s managing director, said Needlemans’ skills in the rail and utilities sectors would complement the company’s.
Needlemans was established 40 years ago as a traditional QS. Its clients include BAA, EDF Energy and Tubelines and it has worked on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link and Heathrow Terminal 5. On T5, Needlemans provided services for the communications and security systems for the rail station as well as the terminal building.
Its aviation team has previously worked on Dublin airport, Gaza airport and Changi airport in Singapore.
The takeover is part of F+A’s broader strategy to diversify its services. Leonard said the strategy was a major factor in growing to a £100m-turnover business by 2010.
He added: “We enjoy stability through our diverse sectors, probably more than most other companies.”
