Bristol civil and structural engineering consultancy Jubb has been acquired by national rival in a move it said would provide a significant opportunity for it to strengthen its future.
For new owner, fast-growing built environment consultancy Ridge, the takeover expands its geographical reach into the South West while reinforcing its position as a leader in the sector.
Jubb, which employs around 100 people across its offices in Bristol, Winchester, Plymouth and Cardiff, while Ridge has one of its 13 offices in Bristol.
Following a strong performance in recent years, fuelled by a multidisciplinary approach and strategic diversification, Ridge’s turnover has grown by more than 50% over the past two years to pass £140m.
The firm, which was founded in 1946, today employs more than 1,000 people.
It said the acquisition of Jubb, financial details of which have not been disclosed, was part of an ongoing commitment to expand its expertise and strengthen its position in key sectors, further enhancing its ability to deliver the best possible service to clients.
Jubb’s core services include civil engineering, structural engineering, ground engineering, and transport and environmental planning.
Ridge said it was particularly interested in Jubb’s expertise in areas such as data centres, defence and infrastructure.
Jubb recently completed civil, structural and ground engineering design work on a 30,000 sq m hyperscale data centre in Scandinavia valued at more than €100m (£83.3m).
Ridge said Jubb’s expertise would complement its additional offerings in MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing), architecture, project management, cost management, building surveying and sustainability – so providing further opportunity to deliver value for its clients.
It also said Jubb’s bases in the South West and Wales would give it greater regional coverage and access to new markets.
Jubb managing director Rob Harrhy said the business had achieved outstanding results in recent years, attracting top industry talent and securing fantastic clients.
“Joining Ridge represents a significant opportunity for us to continue delivering exceptional client experiences and outstanding service, while strengthening our future and continuing to put our people first,” he added.
“We have enjoyed getting to know the Ridge team and are confident that their multi-disciplinary approach will greatly enhance our own development and the value we provide to our clients.
“We’re delighted to play a part in the expansion of Ridge into the South West and Wales, and we look forward to consolidating their presence in key markets like data centres and infrastructure.”
Ridge senior partner Adrian O’Hickey said the firm’s interest in Jubb had been driven by the excellent work its team delivered for its clients daily.
“As well as being established in three of our target growth sectors, its team of talented professionals are known for their technical excellence and client-focused approach,” he added. “They will be a fantastic addition to the Ridge family.
“It is also worth noting that as our two businesses become one, our values and visions are well aligned.
“We both believe in putting our people first and we have real synergies in areas such as integrity, collaboration and a client-focused approach.”
