Arthur D. Little (U.S) completes successful Management Buy-Out with the Altran Group (France)

Deal Size Range between $16.6 and $25.6 Million

Consulting sector, Management

In accordance with their new strategy announced at the end of last year, the Altran Group has completed the disposal of its subsidiary company Arthur D. Little. Altran sold Arthur D. Little and the associated brand to the firm’s 1886 Partnership, a company comprising the members of the subsidiary’s current management. Given the investments carried out in Arthur D. Little since the company’s acquisition in 2002 and the sale price between $16.6 million and $25.6 million, this disposal will represent a net accounting charge of between $76.8 million and $115 million in Altran’s consolidated accounts, of which $38.6 million have already been booked in the 1H 2011 accounts. In order to accompany the takeover of Arthur D. Little’s activities by the new stakeholders, the Altran group is making available to the 1886 Partnership company a funding line of $19.2 million maximum, to be reimbursed by 2015 at the latest and guaranteed by the Arthur D. Little brand. As a result of the divestment, the Altran Group will be better placed to refocus on innovation and information systems consulting and enables Altran to refine and realign their business direction. Moreover, now in its 125th anniversary year, Arthur D. Little, the world’s first management consulting firm has once again become a Global Private Partnership, with 100% of the ownership of the company now held by its Partners. The Management Buy Out deal involves all of its offices worldwide and includes the prestigious Arthur D. Little brand.

Enea (Sweden) has divested units to Xdin (Swedish subsidiary of France-based Alten Group)

Deal Size Range $20.3 Million

Consulting Sector, Global Software, Wireless Broadband Services

Enea has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to divest the Swedish consulting companies in Stockholm, Lund and Linköping to Xdin AB, the Swedish subsidiary to the Alten Group, a leading global technical consulting company, based in Paris. The divestment is part of Enea’s strategy to focus on their global software business and optimize their business opportunities in areas such as Linux, real time operating systems, hardware environments and product related services. Their aim is to become the world leader for operating systems to the wireless broadband industry. The divested business is comprised of 228 employees and approximately 90 subcontractors, which represents just over half of Enea’s overall consulting business. The combined revenue of the Nordic consulting units is approximately $43.3 million. The purchase consideration for the shares in Enea Services Stockholm AB, Enea Services Öresund and Enea Services Linköping AB amounts to approximately $20.3 million with no cash and no-interest-bearing liabilities. The divestment is expected to lead to a capital gain in accounting terms of approximately $9.5 million. Final settlement of the purchase price will be based on companies' audited financial statements for 2011 and is expected to take place during the second quarter of 2012.

Intierra Resource Intelligence (Australian) has acquired Raw Materials Group (Sweden)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Business Intelligence, Resource Sector Information Services

Intierra Resource Intelligence, the leading supplier of business intelligence to the global resources sector, has recently announced that it has acquired the Swedish-based Raw Materials Group (RMG). As a result of the deal, all RMG shareholders have taken an equity position in the expanded company and all RMG staff will stay on with the new entity. This unification with RMG, a leading pioneer in mining data compilation and analysis, creates one of the industry’s largest and most complete database groups and will be well-equipped to deliver enhanced mission-control data, reports, consultancy services and industry briefings. By bringing together the two leading suppliers of resource sector information, the merger will afford clients an unrivalled blend of knowledge, advisory experience and analytical expertise. With an extensive resource sector database at their core, the companies’ combined services and capabilities will better serve clients as they seek to forecast and benchmark their business performances. Both database units, Raw Materials Data and IntierraLive will continue to operate as independent products. The combined company is expected to achieve revenue of $11.5 million. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Global Public Affairs (Canada) has merged with Corpen Group (Canada)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Government Relations and Critical Communications

Canada’s premier government relations firm, and the nation’s fastest growing critical communications consultancy, recently announced that they are to combine their services in a move that signals the increased intersection between these two fields. Alberta’s based Corpen Group will merge their services with Global Public Affairs, who have acquired the company. As a result of the deal, their clients will benefit from combined services from one of Canada’s leading integrated government relations and strategic communications consultancies. This newly sealed business relationship will see the expansion of Corpen Group’s critical communications services across the country. Moreover, the integration will extend the portfolio of corporate and crisis communications services to Global clients, while still allowing Corpen Group to continue operating as a successful and independent brand. Following the merger, Corpen Group can now also refer clients to Global for those seeking an added public policy dimension to their issues management offering. Terms of the transaction were not released.

Danish consultancy NIRAS (Denmark) has acquired Ramboll Natura AB (Sweden)

Deal Size Range $9 Million

Consulting Sector: Environment and Natural Resources

The Nordic consulting firm NIRAS that currently operates with over 1,300 employees in 16 offices in Europe, Asia and Africa and works in a variety of disciplines including: construction and infrastructure, public utilities, environment and natural resources, climate change and energy and development and planning consulting, has recently announced the acquisition of Ramboll Natura AB. The deal is estimated to be in the region of $9 million. Ramboll Natura is a leading Swedish consultancy company, with 19 employees working within the field of international development, particularly with regard to the natural resources and environment sectors. The firm has its principal operations in Sweden, Africa and Asia and had an expected turnover of $9.4 million in 2011. The merger consolidates Niras’ market position in Sweden and Finland in particular, but will also lead to increased business opportunities in Switzerland, Germany and multilateral aid agencies. NIRAS is currently the market leader in consulting services for Danish Danida, the Finnish Foreign Ministry and Sida in Sweden.

Sigma Labs Inc. (U.S) has acquired Sumner Associates and La Mancha Company (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Engineering and Manufacture

The engineering consulting firm Sigma Labs Inc. (based in Santa Fe, New Mexico) that offers market advanced manufacturing to the defence and aerospace sectors has recently announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately Sumner Associates Inc. and La Mancha Company (also of Santa Fe), both of whom operate under the same management team. Sumner Associates and La Mancha Company provide consulting services to the private and public sectors, particularly in the fields of emerging technologies and alternative applications of established technologies. The transaction became effective on or around December 31 2011. Sigma Labs expects the acquisition to be a strategic boost to profits, as they are hoping the additional companies will add over $1.2 million in revenue over the coming year, as well as open up new marketing and sales opportunities within the Federal government and defence industrial markets. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Synerion (U.S.) has acquired ITR Systems Division (Canada)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Workforce Management and Human Resources

A veteran heavyweight in the WFM industry, Synerion have recently announced their acquisition of the ITR Systems Division. Combined, the merger will create a company with more than 65 years’ experience and 20,000 customers worldwide, across a wide range of industries. The merger of the ITR division with Synerion means more effective, efficient and superior solutions for Synerion’s and ITR’s clients. With more than four million employees in various industries, Synerion provides comprehensive Workforce Management software solutions and services that enable organizations to optimize their most valuable asset – human resources. ITR is the largest privately owned Canadian provider of workforce management systems, able to deliver exceptional business solutions and responsive customer service. The merger will generate developed capabilities and more extensive levels of customer support. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

CBIZ inc. (U.S.A) has acquired PSA Insurance and Financial Service (U.S.A)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Benefits and Retirement Plans

CBIZ Inc., the American financial and accounting company that helps clients manage their finances and employees; have recently announced that it has acquired the defined benefit actuarial consulting practice of PSA Insurance and Financial Service, based in Maryland U.S.A. The deal became effective on November 1 2011 and terms of the transaction were not disclosed. PSA’s actuarial and retirement plan consulting book of business recorded an estimated $1.2 million in revenue over the last 12 months and includes four associates leaving the business. As a result of the deal, PSA will continue to provide defined contribution services to its clientele. Steve Gerard, Chairman and CEO of CBIZ, declared the acquisition a ‘great cultural fit’ and a company in direct compliance with its existing retirement planning practice in the Mid-Atlantic. CBIZ’s service offerings will be undoubtedly strengthened by PSA’s business expertise within this area of consulting.

Peninsula Business Services (U.K) has acquired a unit from Dublin-based Graphite HRM (Ireland)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Human Resources - law and employment operations

Peninsula Business Services, the UK law, health and safety consultancy, has announced that it has acquired a unit of Dublin-based human resources consultancy firm Graphite HRM. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquisition is expected to strengthen Peninsula’s market presence in Ireland (it already employs 65 people in its Dublin and Belfast offices), where the acquired business has five staff and posted profits of $0.46 million last year. As part of the deal, Peninsula has acquired Graphite’s employment, law and compliance operation, which has added $1.28 million to its sales as a result of the transaction.

DNV (Norway) has acquired a controlling Stake in KEMA (Netherlands)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Energy and Sustainability

DNV has recently announced that it has acquired a controlling stake in Netherlands-based KEMA to create an energy and sustainability consulting firm with a personnel of 2,300. As a result of the deal, Oslo-headquartered DNV will transfer its 500 renewable energy and sustainability specialists into DNV KEMA, a new company that will be headquartered in Arnhem and led by Thijs Aarten, the CEO of KEMA. KEMA’s revenues for last year stood at $295 million and they generated profits of $25.8 million. The acquisition is a strategic move on behalf of DNV, as KEMA is able to offer the independent certification and technical advice services to the power generation, transmission and distribution sectors – areas DNV is currently not so well equipped to provide. KEMA is also particularly strong in the field of advisory work against the electrical grid, including smart grid applications. Expertise such as this will greatly enhance DNV’s chances of providing a very real chance of achieving a low-carbon economy. The terms of the deal, which sees DNV acquire 74.3% of KEMA’s outstanding shares, were not disclosed.

Sweco (Sweden) has acquired FMC Group (Finland)

Deal Size Range $84.8 Million

Consulting Sector: Construction, Engineering

Sweco, the Swedish technology consulting company that services the environmental, energy, infrastructure and building construction sectors, has recently announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire the Finnish engineering firm FMC Group. The Finnish consultancy currently operates with about $104.4 million in revenues and approximately 1100 employees in 21 offices across Finland and in the Baltic countries, Poland, Russia and India. The deal would form the second largest engineering consultancy in the Finnish market. The value of the acquisition (enterprise value) amounts to $84.8 million paid in a combination of cash and shares. FMC Group stands as a market leader in Finland in the building construction industries and has strong market positions in areas such as installation and industrial technology also – fields in tandem with Sweco’s areas of influence. For the fiscal year 2010/2011, FMC Group reported an operating profit of $12.3 million. The acquisition is a strategic move on behalf of Sweco to strengthen their market presence across the whole of Scandinavia while also broadening their range of services.

Adec (France) has been acquired by Groupe COGEP (France)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Accounting, Tax services

Adec, the French financial consulting firm has recently been acquired by its larger counterpart Groupe COGEP, according to a French-language announcement from Edmond de Rothschild Entreprises Patrimoniales which advised the acquisition. The two companies have a total of $90.3 million turnover, 800 employees and 60 agencies. Headquartered in Paris, Adec employs a total of 160 and generates revenues of $21.9 million. Adec’s business portfolio offers a wide range of services including accounting, tax advices, audit and consulting services. By acquiring Adec, Groupe COGEP is well placed to extend its market influence and consolidate its already developed range of services.

Ipsos (U.K) has acquired Consumer Behaviour and Insight (Vietnam)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Market Research

Ipsos has recently announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Consumer Behaviour and Insight (CBI), one of the largest research companies in Vietnam. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Combining with Synovate Vietnam to become the newly branded Ipsos Vietnam, the company will be managed by CBI’s founder. As a result of this merged company, Ipsos will now benefit from full service market research agencies operating in six major markets in South East Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philipines, Thailand and Vietnam). Having begun its operations in 1998, CBI has developed its business portfolio to offer a full service market research service to both local and international clients and is an ESOMAR member with 70 full time employees operating from both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. As a result of the acquisition, Ipsos will be well placed to accelerate and expand their footprint in the region, as well as has a strong base of client relationships from which to work with.

Grant Thornton Russia has merged with Rosexpertiza (Russia)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Accounting

Grant Thornton Russia has recently announced that it has completed a merger with assurance and consulting firm Rosexpertiza, consequently expanding its market presence in the country. Rosexpertiza currently has 30 partners and operates with 650 employees at offices across the country, including Moscow, St Petersburg and Kazan. According to International Account Bulletin’s most recent survey Grant Thornton would now have more staff than the seventh largest RSM Top Audit, which has 542 people. The merger will consolidate both companies’ respective market positions. Managing partners of the combined firm will be Sergey Aslibekian and Alexander Kozlov. The growth of the two accounting companies is built on the expectation that the Russian GDP will also continue to grow.

Sweco (Sweden) has acquired Vealeidja OU (Estonia)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Construction

Sweco AB, the Swedish engineering consultancy, has recently announced that it has acquired the Estonian consulting firm that specializes in construction supervision and project management, Vealeidja OU. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Vealeidja currently operates with a staff quota of 35 employees. The acquisition is a strategic move on behalf of Sweco, strengthening their position in the Estonian market, while also expanding their range of services. In view of the improved market conditions in Estonia, Sweco sees an opportunity for long-term demand in infrastructure, energy and water environment services. The acquisition is indicative of Sweco’s recent expansion in Eastern Europe: in 2011 it has successfully completed successful acquisitions in not only Sweden and Norway, but also Russia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia. Consequently, the company has raised the number of its employees to in central and Eastern Europe to 900 people.

Davaco Inc. (U.S) has acquired Exocera (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Retail Sustainability

Davaco Inc., a market leader in retail consulting that enables retailers to maximize brand presence and profitability has recently announced that the company has broadened its operations to include comprehensive multi-site sustainability and resource reduction solutions. Davaco’s newly extended service offering comes as a result of the strategic acquisition of Austin-based Ecoxera, a retail sustainability consulting firm. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Justin Doak, who is the founder of Ecoxera, will continue to serve as President. As a result of the acquisition, Davaco is now well equipped to further support retail and restaurant clients in meeting their environmental goals. Merging the two retail consulting companies together will result in a strengthened forum of expertise that can help national brands the ability to integrate sustainability as a low-cost value add to any existing roll-out programme.

WPP (Ireland) has acquired a majority stake in Qais Consulting (Singapore)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consuting Sector, Digital Marketing and Communications.

WPP, the influential global market leader in marketing communications has announced that it has acquired a majority stake in Singapore-based digital marketing agency Qais Consulting. Terms of the deal were not released. Qais offers full-service business consulting with an extensive portfolio in digital and marketing strategy, technology development, social media and online advertising. The company is unique in that it also includes a range of research services such as stakeholder satisfaction studies and new product/service need assessments, along with website analytics and user testing. WPP will benefit from this depth of marketing study and analytical research. The web-oriented firm currently operates with 31 staff at their headquarters in Singapore and has operations in Mumbai also. Revenues for the year ending 31 December 2010 were $3.1 million. As part of the deal, Qais will be merged with WPP’s digital marketing agency VML, a U.S based company founded in 1992 and one of the world’s largest wholly digital agencies; the resulting company will be rebranded VML Qais.

Mustang, a Wood Group company, (U.S), has acquired ISI Solutions (Argentina)

Deal Size Range $5.2 million

Consulting Sector, Automation and Control Engineering

It has recently been announced that Mustang, a Wood Group company, has acquired a majority stake in ISI Solutions for an initial consideration of $5.2 million. ISI Solutions is a Latin American provider of automation and control engineering and consulting services to the oil and gas, power and pipeline industries in Latin America. As of December 2010, the gross assets of ISI were valued at $8.5 million. As a result of the deal, ISI will be rebranded ISI Mustang and will operate within Mustang’s Automation and Control (MAC) business with 240 employees. The acquisition is emblematic of Mustang’s business strategy to make headway into the Latin American automation and control market. With core skills in providing automation services to the pipeline sector, ISI complements MAC’s business, which focuses on refining, petrochemical and oil and gas production facilities. The addition company will allow Mustang to tap into more extensive global networks.

SGS (Switzerland) has acquired InTech (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Engineering

SGS, the Swiss-based global provider of technical inspection, verification, testing and conformity assessment services for industrial markets has recently announced that it has acquired Innovative Technical Services (‘InTech’). InTech (headquartered in New Orleans) is a privately held engineering and consulting firm that specializes in production allocation modeling to the oil and gas industries. The acquired company currently employs 19 full time staff and has revenues in excess of $3 million. As a result of the deal, SGS will benefit from InTech’s valuable services in the upstream oil and gas industries, as well as unique business knowledge and expertise.

Golder Associates (U.S) has merged with GeoEng Consultants (Singapore)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting Sector, Geotechnical Investigation and Design

Golder Associates, the global consulting, design and constructing services company has recently announced its merger with Singapore’s GeoEng Consultants, thereby creating the platform for the largest employee-owned geology, geotechnical investigation and geotechnical design practice in Asia. GeoEng Consultants is a specialist civil and geotechnical consulting company that is equipped to provide technical support to many well known geotechnical specialist contractors. By merging with Golder Associates, which employees more than 7,000 people across 160 offices around the world and provides consulting, design and construction services in the specialist areas of earth and environment energy, both teams will benefit from advanced expertise and a greater pool of resources. Moreover, the move generates a number of beneficial synergies for their respective clients: both firms being leading providers of specialized professional consulting services to the land development, infrastructure and transportation industries. The deal is also indicative of Golder’s commitment to the burgeoning markets within the Asia-Pacific region.

Digital Insurance (U.S) has acquired Kellog Smith (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Employee Benefits

Headquartered in Georgia (U.S), the employee benefits agency Digital Insurance has recently announced that it has acquired Kellog Smith, an employee benefits consulting company based in Florida. Established in 1993, Kellog Smith is a private company and is categorized under the insurance agents, brokers and service. As a result of the deal, the firm will now operate under the auspices Digital Benefit Advisors (DBA) – a division of Digital Insurance. As part of the acquisition package, the Kellog Smith’s agency principals, Katy Kellog and Mike Smith, together with their employees, will join DBA, yet continue to provide day-to-day service and benefit guidance to their clients in South Florida. The addition of this team to DBA will enhance their business approach with highly developed consultative skills and broaden their strategic scope more generally. The merger will create a strengthened company that will be well equipped to combine the commitment of experienced, local advisors with the sophisticated technology of a national company. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

WPP (Ireland) has acquired a majority stake for Oglivy Public Relations in Mind Resource Healthcare Consulting Limited (Hong Kong)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Healthcare Communications

Market leader in marketing services WPP (headquartered in Dublin) has announced that it has agreed to acquire, for Oglivy Public Relations, a majority stake in Mind Resource Healthcare Consulting Limited, an independent healthcare communications agency in Hong Kong, subject to the approval of closing conditions. Mind Resource offers event planning, production services and public relations consultancy to clients in the pharmaceutical sector. The agency currently operates with a personnel of 18 people and revenues for the year ending December 2010 were approximately $2.1 million, with gross assets at the same date of approximately $1.3 million. The investment is emblematic of WPP's strategy of developing its services in rapidly expanding markets, consolidating their presence in new regions.

ICON plc (Ireland) is to acquire BeijingWits Medical Consulting Ltd. (China)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Medical, Clinical Development

The Dublin headquartered ICON plc, a global provider of outsourced development services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries, has recently announces that it has entered into an agreement, subject to closing conditions, to acquire BeijingWits Medical Consulting Ltd., a leading CRO in China. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2012. BeijingWits offers full-service clinical development capabilities and is renowned for clinical trial execution in China. The acquisition will boost ICON's client portfolio and expand their range of services in the region. ICON will also benefit with the addition of over 100 experienced professionals based in China. The deal is emblematic of ICON's strategic business development in the Asia-Pacific market.

Duane Morris Government Affairs Unit (U.S) has merged with GSP Consulting (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Government Relations

Duane Morris' Government Affairs unit and GSP Consulting have recently announced that they are to join forces with the formation of Duane Morris government Strategies LLC. DMGA and GSP will cease doing lone business on December 31, 2011, and the new company will commence commercial operations as an ancillary business of international law firm Duane Morris LLP effective of January 1, 2012. As a result of the merger, the new company will be well equipped to offer an extensive range of government relations and public affairs services, including lobbying, grant writing, development finance consulting, media relations management, grassroots campaigning and community outreach. DMGS will benefit from 30 experienced professionals representing clients at the federal, state and local levels and will operate in nine offices across five states and the District of Columbia. The newly born company allows the existing divisions broader geographical scope in terms of market influence, as well as an enriched portfolio of services to offer clients.

ICF International (U.S) has acquired Ironworks Consulting (U.S)

Deal Size Range $100 Million

Consulting sector, Web Development, Customer Engagement Solutions

ICF International, a leading provider of consulting services and technology solutions to government and commercial clients, has announced that it has entered into a definitive deal to purchase Ironworks Consulting, L.L.C. An interactive web development firm that generates customer engagement solutions across web, mobile and social media platforms to blue chip companies in the health, energy and financial services industries, Ironworks Consulting is expected to have revenues of $57 million for the financial year and an operating income margin of greater than 20 per cent. The company was valued at $100 million and the purchase will be funded through ICF's existing bank credit line. The deal is an example of ICF's business strategy of expansion, particularly their implementation service offerings. The deal will also increase ICF's business capabilities and add new client networks.

Frost Insurance (U.S) has acquired Stone Partners Inc (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Human Resources

The San-Antonio-based Frost Insurance, a subsidiary of San Antonio's Frost Bank, has recently announced that it is acquiring Houston human resource consulting firm Stone Partners Inc. Terms of the transaction, which is expected to come into effect as of January 1st, were not disclosed. Stone Partners specialized in compensation, benefits consulting and outsourcing services. The employer of 25 personnel, Stone Partners generates about $4 million in revenue. The acquisition is a strategic one on behalf of Frost Insurance as it will undoubtedly expands their portfolio of services and develop business relationships in new fields. Frost Insurance currently operates with 218 employees and reportedly generated more than $35 million in revenue in 2010, placing it 71st in a ranking of the 100 largest insurers by Bank Insurance Magazine.

Reznick Group (U.S) has acquired Think Energy (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Renewable Energy

The Reznick Group as recently announced the acquisition of technical consulting firm Think Energy Inc. The newly formed entity will be rebranded Reznick Think Energy LLC and will operate under the business umbrella of the Reznick Group. Leveraging Think Energy’s technical expertise in clean energy, sustainability and energy efficiency, the new consulting sub-section will provide services such as investor due diligence, on-site renewable energy feasibility assessments, procurement management and technology assessment. Reznick Think Energy will work closely with Reznick Group’s already operating energy practice, and will provide clients with a technical and public policy experience, together with broad market knowledge and financial expertise. Terms of the transaction were not released.

CellMax Technologies (Sweden) has acquired Antenna Solutions (Sweden)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Mobile Telecommunications

CellMax Technologies, a market leader in high efficiency antennas for mobile networks, based in Sweden, has announced the acquisition of the Swedish consulting company Antenna Solutions. Antenna Solutions is a long-term partner of CellMax and will now focus entirely on the development of CellMax’s ‘next generation’ base station antennas. The acquisition will come into effect from 1st March 2012 and Antenna’s two founders - antenna development experts Stefann Jonsson and Dan Karlsson - will then join CellMax’s research and development team in Kista, Sweden. Kista is a world-leading cluster in mobile telecommunications and home to many ICT related companies, including market leader Ericsson. CellMax is currently one of Sweden’s 20 fastest growing technology companies and this acquisition will further broaden its portfolio of services, building on its innovative technologies. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Itelligence (Germany) has acquired PlanOrg (Germany)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, IT Business Solutions and SAP Strategies

The full-service IT provider Itelligence has recently announced that it has entered into a deal to acquire the PlanOrg Industry division of the SAP partner PlanOrg, based in Jena, Germany. The acquisition will come into effect from January 1st 2012, but the terms of the transaction were not disclosed.  The core strengths of PlanOrg’s business portfolio include the realization of innovative business and IT strategies in small and medium-sized manufacturing companies using SAP solutions. The move is a strategic one from Itelligence AG, as they seek to continue its plans for growth by further expanding its international and regional presence with increased local customer service. The employees of the former PlanOrg Industry division will remain at the company, on top of the expansion of the Jena site and the arrival of new appointments in the medium term.

WorkPlace Systems (U.K) is to be acquired by Wasp Management Software Limited (U.K)

Deal Size Range $64 Million

Consulting sector, Management Software

Workplace Systems, a world leader in the development and supply of standard software products for workforce management, is to be acquired by Wasp Management Software (NewCo) for 25p per share, valuing the software consulting firm at $64 million. Wasp Management Software, a company backed by Lloyds TSP Development Capital, has reached an agreement with Workplace on the terms of a recommended cash offer for its entire issued (and to-be-issued) share capital, excluding the roll-over shares which the buyer has separately contracted to acquire from the management team. Workplace’s annual revenue has risen significantly, up from $7.3m last year to $8.3m this year. The firm has made important gains within its field of industry: the development of the SaaS solution, alongside its existing On-Premise software gave their figures a major boost.

Appirio (U.S) has acquired Saaspoint (Ireland)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Cloud Services

Appirio, the Californian-based technology-enabled services provider that helps enterprises power their business with the cloud, has entered into a deal to acquire Saaspoint, the Irish cloud consulting service. The transaction (details of which were not disclosed) is expected to close later this month, subject to customary closing conditions. As a result of the acquisition, Appirio will benefit from a broader cross section of experienced cloud consultants, as well as a market presence in the U.K and Ireland, improving their global influence. The deal, the fourth acquisition for Appirio this year, will provide the company with a strategic foundation from which to build in Europe. Staff numbers are expected to ruse at Saaspoint as a result of the takeover, with Appirio’s EMEA head Lori Williams saying she expects personnel numbers to double over the coming year.

AKKA Technologies (France) is to acquire a stake in the Daimler subsidiary Mbtech Group (Germany)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Engineering

Daimler AG and AKKA Technologies (an engineering consultancy for the automotive, aeronautics, space, transport and energy sectors) will jointly manage the MBtech Group, an internationally leading engineering consulting company based in Germany. Subject to the approval of antitrust authorities, AKKA Technologies will acquire a 65% stake in MBtech. Prior to this, MBtech has been a 100% Daimler subsidiary, yet with a substantial equity interest of 35% in the future, Daimler will remain a long-term and strategic shareholder, as well as an important client of MBtech. The entry of AKKA Technologies at MBtech will create one of Europe’s largest engineering consultancies. The two companies complement each other ideally in their sectoral structure, client portfolio and regional positioning: AKKA Technologies is focussed on France, Italy, Spain and the U.K, while MBtech has a strong market influence in Germany, China and the U.S.

Sweco (Sweden) has acquired units from NEAS (Norway)

Deal Size Range $16.62 Million

Consulting sector, fire and safety, project management and building regulations support

Swedish engineering and architectural services company Sweco has recently announced it is to acquire a number of units from NEAS, a Norwegian consultancy group for $16.62m. The Stockholm-based enterprise will purchase the departments responsible for fire safety, project management and planning and building regulations advisory support. The fire and safety unit alone operates will 50 consultants, while the NEAS businesses as a whole has some 70 personnel. As a result of the deal, Sweco’s numbers in Norway will grow to just under 1,100 upon completion. Along with expanding their portfolio of services significantly, the acquisition will strengthen Sweco’s market position in Norway, becoming market leaders within fire and safety. In the third quarter of 2011, NEAS as a whole recorded $22.7m in revenue.

Pershing Yoakley & Associates (U.S) has merged with GatesMoore (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Healthcare

Officials of Pershing Yoakley & Associates and GatesMoore recently announced their two companies – both leading healthcare accounting and consulting firms – will merge in the new year. The combined companies will benefit from more than 180 employees in offices in Atlanta, Austin, Knoxville and Tampa Bay. The merger will increase both companies’ resources, serving physicians, hospitals and the entire healthcare community. Founded in 1982, GatesMoore was ranked eight in ‘Forbes’’ list of ‘Leading providers of the United States of Accounting Professionals’. PYA was established a year later than its sister company and has recently been ranked by ‘Modern Healthcare’ as the nation’s 12th largest privately held healthcare management consulting firm.

ABS Group (U.S) to acquire Safetec Nordic AS (Norway)

Deal Size Range Uknown

Consulting sector, Life-cycle Optimization

ABS Group of Companies, Inc., has recently announces that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Safetec Nordic AS, an integrated risk and asset management services provider. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Headquartered in Texas, ABS Consulting operates in over 30 countries with over 1,700 employees worldwide. Based in Norway, Safetec offers life-cycle optimization services, from concept evaluation to decommissioning. The buying company hopes that by combining the talent and resources of these two business entities, the resulting consulting organization will be better equipped to deliver clients more timely and innovative solutions for today’s operational and business challenges. For almost three decades, Safetec’s focus has been serving customers in the offshore, marine and land-based industries from their key operating centres in Norway, the UK and Malaysia. During that same period, ABS Consulting has established itself as a global leader in safety, risk and integrity management systems. Adding Safetec’s integrated risk and asset lifecycle management services to the organization will significantly enhance ABS Consulting’s existing risk and integrity management services. Safetec will also serve as a strategic platform from which to expand into offshore markets.

PwC (U.S) has acquired Folio Technologies LLC (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Portfolio Optimization Solutions

PwC US has recently announces it has acquired certain assets of Folio Technologies LLC, a provider of product portfolio optimization solutions. The acquisition extends the firm’s current portfolio of services, allowing for the expansion of PwC’s Transaction Services Valuation practice in areas including sustainability, project portfolio optimization, business analytics support, value-based decision analysis and real options. As a result of the deal, Folio’s founders, Herve Kieffel and Renato Cedolin, will join the practice as Principal and Director respectively. Along with enhancing their technical expertise, the deal provides PwC with a software platform from which they can accelerate the development of their next generation services, allowing for an end-to-end service for clients. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

ALECTIA (Denmark) has acquired Healthy Company (UK)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, health and saftety

ALECTIA, a leading Danish consulting firm operating across a number of different disciplines, from process technology and occupational health and safety to business, energy and environmental consulting, has announced the acquisition of Healthy Company (based in the UK), who employ ten specialists within the areas of health, safety and well-being. Through the acquisition of this relatively young company (Healthy Company was founded in 2006) ALECTIA is well placed to consolidate its position as the largest working environment consultancy in Denmark and improve its existing consulting services within health promotion. It is ALECTIA’s tenth acquisition since 2005, and one that will develop their market offerings and meet the demand for practical and strategic consultancy services.  Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Trinity Consultants (U.S) has acquired Gryphon Investors (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Environmental

The Dallas-based Trinity Consultants, an international consulting firm that specializes in industrial air quality issues has announced that it has recapitalized with financial partner Gryphon Investors, a San-Francisco-based middle-market private equity firm. Trinity management and employees maintained significant ownership as a result of the transaction. Gryphon acquired controlling interest in the firm from Sentinel Capital Partners – the majority owner since 2007. John E. Hofmann, Trinity’s President/CEO since 2001, will remain at the helm. Investment banking firm MHT Partners advised Trinity Consultants on the deal, while Gryphon was advised by investment banking firm Lincoln International. The deal will further extend Gryphon’s presence in the environmental services sector and Trinity Consultants is also poised for continued growth as it gains market share in its existing locations. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

MITIE (U.K) has acquired a majority stake in Direct Enquiries (UK)

Deal Size Range is $0.5 million paid in cash on completion, rising to a maximum of $13 million depending on performance

Consulting sector, Disabilities / Access

MITIE, the outsourcing and energy services company has recently announces that is has acquired a majority stake in the UK’s leading access and disability consultancy company Direct Enquiries Holdings Ltd (‘Direct Enquiries’).  The acquired firm has an annual turnover of approximately $2.2 million, The acquisition provides MITIE with a strong platform for growth in the compliance, risk assessment, disability and access industries, as well as generating significant cross-selling opportunities within MITIE’s existing service portfolio. The initial consideration for the deal is $0.5 million that is paid in cash on completion, with further consideration payable in cash up to a maximum of $13 million depending on financial performance over a five year period. MITIE’s investment has been financed through its Entrepreneurs Fund and provides the management team with an incentive linked to future performance based on the MITIE model.

LSA Global (U.S) has acquired Changeworks Global (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Management

Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, LSA Global, the global training, outsourcing and consulting firm that focuses on achieving measurable business results with a select group of clients, today announced the acquisition of Changeworks Global Inc., a leading San Francisco-based management consulting firm that focuses on cutting edge strategic change, creating high performance cultures and developing leaders. As a result of the deal, the Managing Partner of Changeworks Global will become President of LSA Global and will be responsible for LSA’s Change and Leadership Development Practices and day-to-day operations. Tris Brown, President and CEO of LSA Global will remain CEO responsible for the overall strategic direction and client services. LSA Global has benefitted from a 60% growth rate in the last 12 months and by adding Changeworks to their arsenal of expertise, they can expect to strengthen their offerings in the fields of strategic culture change and organizational development.

Grant Thornton International (U.S) has acquired CCR LLP (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Accounting

Grant Thornton International has recently finalized its deal to acquire the assets and practices of New England accounting and consulting firm CCR LLP. Rumours began to circulate last month about the possibility of an acquisition. The impending transaction will significantly enhance Grant Thornton’s market presence in the American east coast, and will also expand their portfolio of services in the region, such as insurance and municipal governmental work. In addition it reinforces their credentials in the core markets in which they already have a strong foothold, such as technology, consumer industrial products and the not-for-profit sector. As a result of the deal, 140 professionals will be joining Grant Thornton, including 12 partners. Grant Thornton intends to keep all of CCR’s office locations for the current moment, but when Grant Thornton’s lease on its Boston office expires in 18 months, the firm plans to consolidate the two firms’ office space in a new downtown Boston location. CCR currently has $30 million in annual revenue, which will be added on to Grant Thornton’s $1.1 billion.

SLR Consulting (U.K) has acquired Namibian firm Bittner Water Consult (Namibia)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Sustainable Development, Water Resources

The UK based international environmental firm, SLR Consulting, has recently expanded its services in southern Africa following the acquisition of Bittner Water Consult, a Namibian consulting firm that specializes in the sustainable development, protection and management of ground and surface water resources. Clients include multi-national mining and manufacturing companies, as well as local and state government bodies. The deal follows a vast extension of SLR’s global market influence: it is their fifth acquisition in 20 months and the third in southern Africa in the last year, following the purchase of environmental consultancy Metago and engineering firm GreenEng. The acquisition is a strategic move on behalf of SLR to capitalise on the opportunity for growth in the African mining sector.

exp Global (Canada) has merged with Geodefor Inc (Canada)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Engineering and industry

Headquartered in Canada, the engineering and consultancy firm exp Global, formerly Trow Global, has recently been merged with Geodefor Inc., a multidisciplinary consultancy based in Canada, which specializes in the mining and forestry industries. The merger will allow for exp Global to expand their range of services, opening up new possibilities for employees and clients, while Geodefor will benefit from exp Global’s international market influence. Founded in 1957, exp Global has grown into one of Canada’s largest engineering and consulting companies, with offices around the globe that offer a broad portfolio of services including specialist engineering and technical expertise to the commercial, energy, industrial, infrastructure and transportation sectors.

SNC-Lavalin (Canada) has acquired Harder Associates Engineering Consulting (Canada)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Engineering and Construction

SNC-Lavalin, the engineering, procurement and construction global firm that serves industry sectors and geographic markets, has recently announced the acquisition of Harder Associates Engineering Consulting, a firm which provides consulting services in construction, upstream, oil and gas, and environmental engineering. The company will become part of SNC-Lavalin’s environmental division as a result of the deal. In acquiring Harder Associate’s portfolio of services, SNC-Lavalin will be in a strong position to strengthen its geo-technical and geo-environmental expertise, expanding their offerings in these markets. Harder Associates has 16 employees working in offices in British Columbia and Alberta. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

UGL Limited (Australia) has acquired DTZ Holdings (UK)

Deal Size Range $121m

Consulting sector, Property

Australian infrastructure firm UGL Limited that specialises in manufacturing and outsourcing, has recently acquired UK property consultancy DTZ Holdings for $121 million, in a deal that will expand the buyer’s corporate property services and capture growth in China. The transaction would give UGL combined revenues of $5.2 billion.  Moreover, with the acquisition of DTZ, UGL’s property services represent 37% of combined revenue, making it a strategic investment. The addition of DTZ’s portfolio of services and client network will help UGL build a global platform from which to accelerate growth. Prior to the acquisition, DTZ was placed into administration after shares in DTZ collapsed as a result of the euro-zone turmoil. Goldman Sachs acted as exclusive financial advisor to UGL on the acquisition.

SGS (Switzerland) has acquired Leeder Consulting (Australia)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Environmental

SGS, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company with more than 67, 000 employees worldwide and headquarters in Geneva, has recently announced the acquisition of the Australian based Leeder Consulting for an undisclosed sum. Part of the ASX-listed Greencap Group, Leeder Consulting is a leading provider of innovative environmental analytical services, specializing in air, soil and water testing, as well as in oil impact studies. Benefitting from 33 highly regarded experts, Leeder is well equipped to assist importers, exporters, producers and regulators. Revenue for this year is projected to exceed $6.1. The acquisition of Leeder Consulting is in line with the SGS Environmental Services strategy to offer high-end analytical services.

Van Eyk (Australia) has acquired The Encore Group (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Financial

One of Australia’s most influential investment research and asset consulting providers, Van Eyk, has recently announced the acquisition of the financial services consulting firm the Encore Group, which provides consulting services, programs and systems to financial and planning practices. The details of the transaction were not disclosed. By acquiring Encore, Van Eyk will have direct access to Encore’s intellectual capital, practice management products and consulting services.

The Riverside Company (U.S) has acquired HR Solutions (U.S)

Deal Size Range Unknown

Consulting sector, Management

The Riverside Company, a global private equity firm valued at up to $200m has acquired another add-on to its recently acquired portfolio company Avatar International, purchasing HR Solutions, Inc. a management consulting firm specializing in employee and physical engagement, and based in Chicago. HR Solutions derives half of its revenue from healthcare customers and has been exclusively endorsed by the American Hospital Association for employee engagement, exit and physician surveys. The acquisition of HR Solutions significantly improves industrial capabilities while also providing offices in Chicago, which is close to many Avatar customers and offers a solid foothold in the Midwest. The HR Solutions add-on is Riverside’s 25th acquisition in 2011. Jones Day and KPMG advised Riverside on the deal, while Golub Capital provided funding. The details of the transaction were not disclosed.

Opus International Consultants (New Zealand) has acquired Coffey Rail (Australia)

Deal Size Range $9 Million

Consulting sector, Rail Infrastructure and Engineering

The New Zealand headquartered Opus International Consultants is to acquire the Australian based rail engineering consultancy, Coffey Rail Pty Ltd and its related company Asia Pacific Rail Ltd. The acquisition will add 50 staff and an office in Victoria to Opus’ operation in Australia, increasing their staff number to 370. Opus now employs over 2, 400 people worldwide. In acquiring Coffey Rail, Opus is well-placed to improve their civil and structural capabilities and extend their market influence in Australia. The deal is estimated at $9 million and expected to be completed in early 2012. The acquisition is expected to contribute $0.75 million to Opus’ net profit after tax in the first full year.

ÅF (Sweden) has acquired Mercados Energy Markets International (Spain)

Deal Size Range $5.4 million

Consulting sector, Energy

ÅF has acquired the international energy and management consultancy, Mercados Energy Markets International. Headquartered in Madrid, Spain, the company was established in 1993 and today has a total of more than 60 employees at offices in Spain, Russia, the UK, Turkey, India and Italy. Annual sales for Mercados EMI total some $11.6 million and the company's operating margin for 2010 is anticipated to be approximately 7 percent. ÅF is paying $5.4 million for 100 percent of the shares in the company. The shares are being sold by the company's founders and senior management. Agreement has been reached on an additional consideration to be based on earnings over the next three years. ÅF estimates that this additional consideration will amount to $3.4 million.

BDRC Group buys stake in Donald Strategy Partners

Consulting Sector – Business Research
Buyer/Seller Countries – UK/Australia
Deal Size Range - $2.5m to $5m guesstimate
Deal Announcement – November 2011

The London-based BDRC Group, the UK’s largest independent research consultancy who specialise in the financial, hospitality, leisure and culture, media and advertising, tourism, internet and government sectors, has recently announced their second major investment in the Asian Pacific market. The precedent was set in October with the launch of BDRC Asia in Singapore. The company has now expanded this network of relations further, taking a strategic stake in the Australian agency Jones Donald Strategy Partners (based in Sydney). Established in 1998, JDSP has a strong reputation in financial, retail and telecoms research and aims to help clients solve marketing and business problems within their particular area.
The company currently operates with a dozen personnel and recorded revenues of more than $3.5m for the year ending June 2011. BDRC and JDSP have developed an informal business relationship over the years, sharing ideas, techniques and occasionally, resources. As a result of the deal, this dialogue can now be formalised into a more concrete relationship: JDSP’s founder Tony Jones becomes Senior Partner at BDRC, while BDRC Continental Board Director Roger Donbavand moves to join JDSP in Australia as Managing Partner. In investing in JDSP, the BDRC Group have taken steps to respond to increasing client expectations of both regional and global capability and will now have access to more than 100 staff in the London and Singapore offices of the BDRC Group. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Reservoir Group acquires GeoSearch Logging Inc

Consulting Sector – Energy/Oil and Gas
Buyer/Seller Countries – USA/UK
Deal Size Range - Unknown
Deal Announcement – November 2011

The oilfield services company, Reservoir Group, has recently announced the acquisition of logging service company, GeoSearch Logging Inc. Headquartered in Aberdeen, the Reservoir Group aims to build a global network of businesses that specialise in a vast expanse of sectors within the oil and gas industries, from the down-hole drilling to the completion and production sectors. In acquiring GeoSearch, the Reservoir Group will be well equipped to meet their clients’ needs in areas such as geological consulting, vertical and horizontal well logging and CO2 monitoring services.  With headquarters in Oklahoma, GeoSearch is regarded as one of the largest geological and hydrocarbon well logging service companies in the US; their market influence and expertise will greatly enhance the Reservoir Group’s current portfolio of services and the innovative technologies they are equipped to provide. Currently comprised of 75 active operating units and 12 bases in the US, all 232 personnel currently employed by GeoSearch will remain in the business, but will operate under the Reservoir Group’s existing surface logging services – the brand ‘Empirica’. As a result of the acquisition, Empirica will increase their employee size significantly, benefitting from 150 units and 450 personnel operating globally from its existing facility in Houston.

Mott MacDonald acquires Mouchel’s Gas Pipeline Business

Consulting Sector – Energy
Buyer/Seller Countries – Global/UK
Deal Size Range - $2.5 to $5m guesstimate
Deal Announcement – November 2011

The employee-owned management, engineering and development consultancy that serves the public and private sectors, Mott MacDonald, has announced the acquisition of Mouchel Energy Ltd, a company which offers specific industrial expertise in the UK gas sector.  As a diverse $1.5m global consultancy that works across 12 core business areas, Mott MacDonald stands as one of the world’s largest employee-owned companies, with over 1400 staff, principal offices in nearly 50 countries and running projects in 140.  By acquiring Mouchel Energy (which has an employee quota of 50 fulltime staff), Mott MacDonald will be in a strong position to consolidate a strong base n the UK gas pipeline business, which it will in turn develop into a hub of expertise and knowledge, to benefit customer groups worldwide. Based in Hinckley, Leicestershire, Mouchel Energy specialises in providing innovative solutions and customer service to help clients provide a safe, efficient and economical energy supply across the UK and around the globe. Mott MacDonal and Mouchel Energy share a preoccupation in environmental sustainability; this shared vision is essential to the reasoning behind the deal.

Swisscom IT Services acquires the EFP Group and the Cirrus Group in an integrating Deal

Consulting Sector – IT Services/SAP
Buyer/Seller Countries – Switzerland
Deal Size Range - Unknown
Deal Announcement – November 2011

With the view to integrating the two groups into existing SAP Services division, Swisscom IT Services has recently announced the acquisition of the EFP Group and The Cirrus group. The two mergers will strengthen Swisscom IT Services’ expertise in the public administration, trade and industry, transport and energy supply sectors.  As a result of the acquisitions, the SAP Services division, which will continue to be headed up by Bruno Schmid as CEO, expects to generate revenue of more than $136.9m in the coming year. The EFP Group offers a wealth of consulting expertise in a broad range of sectors; from industry, trade, electricity, gas and water, to business knowledge of the food industry and competencies in supply chain management.  The EFP Group currently employs 70 staff members across Switzerland and consists of four separate companies: EFP Consulting AG, EFM Consulting AG, B1 Consulting AG and Athon SA.
Well established in the public and private sectors, The Cirrus Group is an acknowledged provider of solutions for project and portfolio management, as well as SAP cloud services.  It is acknowledged within the industry as an early adaptor and market leader in the SAP and HP environment that integrates classic corporate consulting into an IT framework in a focussed and targeted manner. With offices in Zurich and Berne, The Cirrus Group has always been a 100% self-financed company and currently comprises of 70 employees.
The recruitment of the EFP Group and The Cirrus Group, is part of a systematic strategy on behalf of Swisscom IT services to greatly improve its market stronghold and to become one of the top three Swiss SAP suppliers. All in all, by developing and expanding their expertise in a vast array of different industries, Swisscom IT Services will be in a strong position to improve their corporate customer business.

Healthcare Software Company acquires Healthcare Consulting Firm

Consulting Sector – IT Services/Healthcare
Buyer/Seller Countries – USA
Deal Size – Unknown
Deal Announcement – November 2011

A new healthcare software maker was created late last month as a result of the Irvine-based Analytix On Demand Inc. acquiring the healthcare consulting firm Integrated Revenue Management Inc. The terms of the deal weren’t released. Originally based in Carlsbad, California, Integrated Revenue works in a space of ‘revenue cycle management’, which aims to assist hospitals and other healthcare institutions get paid. The company has assisted more than 100 client hospitals in recovering more than $1 billion in revenue. Similarly, the newly formed CentraMed Inc. bills its software as a way for hospitals to add 2-3% to their bottom lines.  Formed in a bid to push growth in a fundamental sector of the healthcare technology market, growing market sales of software for revenue cycle management, consulting and several other functions are expected to grow from $37 billion to $59 billion by 2014. The merging of the two companies grew out of an existing business relationship, as previous to the deal Integrated Revenue Management had provided expert-based consultancy alongside Analytix’s strong business partnerships. CentraMed continues to develop software to support clients as they deal with the federal healthcare bill signed in 2010; in fact, the company plans to double its current employee count of 60 within 18 months. It is also poised to sign a deal with a large medical supplier that will bring it into about 450 hospitals.

Cardno Limited acquires Humphrey Reynolds Perkins

Consulting Sector – Engineering/Environmental
Buyer/Seller Countries – Australia
Deal Size Range – $10m guesstimate
Deal Announcement – November 2011

The international infrastructure and environment services group, Cardno Limited announced the acquisition of the Humphrey Reynolds Perkins group of companies, which are focussed in planning and environmental consultancy and based in Brisane, Queensland. The acquisition also includes the Chenoweth Environmental Planning and Landscape Architecture business, which currently exists as a subsidiary firm to HRP. Prior to the merger, Cardno Limited, who operate with a strong regional focus, which complements their specialist teams in major cities, comprises of 4600 employees in over 180 offices across projects in 85 countries. They can expect to gain approximately $11m in annual revenue and $3m in EBIT as a result of the acquisition. They will pay $13.25m for HRP and the deal will came into effect on the 1st November. In acquiring HRP, Cardno aims to continue the strategy of diversification as a means to generate further growth and cross selling with the company’s long running consultancy services in the transport, urban infrastructure and resources markets. The resulting businesses of the deal will be branded Cardno HRP and Cardno Chenoweth.  The founding partner and Director of HRP is also confident that the acquisition by Cardno will enable HRP to diversify and maximise their services to new and existing clients, gain leverage from Cardno’s existing clients and work in yet unexplored areas drawing on Cardno’s broad geographical presence. The deal will be funded by an approximate mix of 75% cash and 25% shares, with around 620, 000 shares issued at a price of $5.34.

FfastFill plc Announces Acquisition of WTD Consulting, Inc.
 
Consulting Sector – IT Services/Financial Services
Buyer/Seller Countries – USA
Deal Size Range – $5m guesstimate
Deal Announcement – November 2011

London-based firm FfastFill plc, one of the leading software providers to the global derivatives community that supports over 80 financial institutions worldwide, recently announced that it has entered into a conditional asset purchase agreement to acquire the trade and assets of Chicago-based technology consulting and software solutions company, WTD Consulting, Inc. For the year ending 30 June 2011, WTD consulting generated revenue of $8m, with a subsequent profit of $1m. The revenue covers both software and development revenue (50%) and consulting services (50%). While opening up FfastFill’s capacity for influence within the U.S market, the technology consulting services offered by WTD Consulting, such as their extensive post-trade processing and consulting experience in exchange traded derivatives (ETD) and over-the-counter (OTC) markets, will maximise FfastFill’s leverage across a global customer base. The resulting merger will mean a company with a broader portfolio of services and products, designed to support a solid global infrastructure. The employee quota for the resulting company will also increase considerably, as the acquisition will add 40 members of staff based in Chicago to the FfastFill team. FfastFill will also benefit from WTD’s customer base of 30 firms, including a number of global banks. The structure of the acquisition comprises of an initial $7.0m payable on completion (the ‘Initial Consideration’) and a deferred consideration of up to $5.0, which will be released according to the achievement of certain performance objectives (the “Deferred Consideration”). The Deferred Consideration would be paid 50% in cash and 50% in Ordinary Shares. The maximum consideration of the deal therefore stands at $12m, with the transaction expected to close no later than the 2nd December.

The Avascent Group acquires the Client Relationships of KittyHawk Partners

Consulting Sector – Business and Technology/Government
Buyer/Seller Countries – USA
Deal Size Range – Unknown
Deal Announcement – November 2011

Headquartered in Washington DC, the Avascent Group (formerly DFI Corporate Services) is the leading provider of business consulting services to firms operating in the business and technology industries, and firms operating within the area of government policy. The Washington centred team of 70 full-time professionals is supported by a worldwide network of regional experts. Commencing as soon as December 2011, KittyHawk partners (based in Steamboat Springs, Colorado) will transition its existing client roster to Avascent as a result of the acquisition. KittyHawk has been successful in developing and nurturing a broad range of consulting relationships in a variety of different business sectors: from commercial aerospace and defence to telecommunications. The addition of KittyHawk’s customer relationships will further strengthen Avascent’s performance as the leading management and strategy consultancy for companies working in these and other government-oriented markets. It will undoubtedly bolster and confirm their global presence, being well positioned to offer a depth of customer of service and a wealth of rigorous consulting methodologies. The transition of KittyHawk’s business links and key members of staff, particularly Alexandre Schoder – an influential principal at KittyHawk, to Avascent’s portfolio of services is an important merger given the current climate of unprecedented change as a result of global business’ regulatory pressures.

Advice Interactive Group has acquired DigitalAge Consulting Inc.

Consulting Sector – Marketing
Buyer/Seller Countries – USA
Deal Size Range - <$5m guesstimate
Deal Announcement – November 2011

Dallas based internet marketing firm, Advice Interactive Group, have this week bought the Florida based DigitalAge Consulting, a company that specializes in local search engine optimization and market research strategies designed for regional business seeking an online presence and competitive edge. While only formed two years ago, DigitalAge have optimized over 1,000 local business listings for global search engine requirements, together with a 100% success rate. As a result of the deal, SEO firm Advice Interactive Group will benefit from the technical expertise and industrial depth of knowledge DigitalAge can provide. This will in turn expand and develop its own services within the field of geo-targeted SEO marketing.

Rejlers acquires the business activity of design and consulting services from Ramboll Finland

Consulting Sector – Energy
Buyer/Seller Countries – Finland
Deal Size Range - $5m to $10m guesstimate
Deal Announcement – November 2011

Based in Finland and a subsidiary of Rejlers, Rejlers Oy has acquired the business activity of design and consulting services in the industrial and energy sectors, specifically automation and electricity, from Ramboll Finland Oy, in a deal that will be fully realized on 1st February 2012. The acquired business is valued at an annual turnover of $7.4m for 2011 and is comprised of 70 employees. Rejlers will also benefit from the business activity Ramboll Finland acquired from Jyvästek Oy. The acquisition will enhance Rejlers’ capacity to provide technical consulting services to the industry and energy customer groups. It will also widen the services Rejlers offers in Finland considerably. As a result of the deal, Rejlers will consist of 430 employees based in Finland. The predominant goal for Rejlers is to employ at least 2015 members of staff and have a turnover of at least SEK 2015 million by 2015, through the implementation of a recruitment plan and strategic acquisition methods.

Teralight has acquired  Hedra Technology Consultants

Consulting Sector – IT Services
Buyer/Seller Countries – Global/Asia
Deal Size Range - Unknown
Deal Announcement – November 2011

Teralight Ltd., a global consulting and technology managed company with offices in Dubai, Islamabad, Beirut and the United States, has recently announced the acquisition of Hedra Technology Consultants, an increasingly influential system integrator, started in 2005, working within IT, telecommunication, education and broadcast industries. The rationale behind the deal is centred on the technological expertise that Hedra Technology Consultants (their headquarters in Islamabad) can provide, which, it is believed, will strengthen Teralight’s market influence regarding the latest technological product. In turn, this will further expand Teralight’s consulting expertise within the matrix of telecommunications, especially since Hedra is located in the SAMENA region (South Asia, Middle East, North Africa) region, where the telecommunication industry is experiencing a boom of growth and revitalized development in both urban and rural markets, within their respective nations.

RINA acquires Engineering Consulting Company D’Appolinia

Consulting Sector – Marine
Buyer/Seller Countries – Global/Italy
Deal Size Range –  >$50m guesstimate
Deal Announcement – November 2011

The internationally renowned Royal Institution of Naval Architects, whose members work in the design, construction, maintenance and operation of marine vessels and structures, and are represented in various maritime organisations in over 90 countries, has recently added to its burgeoning portfolio of expertise. By procuring control of the D’Appolonia Group, a global engineering consultancy firm with headquarters in Genoa, the RINA society has almost doubled its group turnover and has strengthened and diversified its range of services offered in the port development and offshore fields. Within this sector, D’Appolonia benefits from key skills in site engineering, geophysical surveys, seismic hazard evaluation, coastal engineering and environmental impact assessment, and has contributed to various global projects recently, including the Esso Highlands Papua New Guinea project. The engagement of D’Appolina will add a depth of engineering expertise, together with safe environmental methods. With an annual turnover of $119m and 580 members of staff, working across many different sectors, RINA has vastly increased its market influence and capability as a result of the deal.

Windea Offshore and Business Technology Consulting joint venture in offshore wind energy

Consulting Sector – Energy
Buyer/Seller Countries – Germany
Deal Size Range – N/A JV
Deal Announcement – November 2011

The Hamburg based company Windea Offshore currently offers logistics services relating to the energy supply and performance of offshore wind turbines. This provides the EMS Maritime Offshore service and crew transfer to the designated ship and area of port management. The BTC Wind Farm Centre operates in a coordinating capacity, planning the correct method of conduct for particular offshore operations and specializing in geographic information systems and network management. Headquartered in Oldenburg, the BTC is one of the largest IT consulting companies in Germany with total 2010 annual revenue of $225.5m and 1659 employees. Together, these two companies will design a future planning tool and control service for an Offshore Coordination Centre. This will ensure a central site of delegation and demand, supported by an I.T system based on the one used by BTC centre, to ensure all operational and logistical activities on land, sea and air are carried out successfully.

Barona Group acquires Saranen Consulting

Consulting Sector – Human Resources
Buyer/Seller Countries – Finland
Deal Size Range - <$5m guesstimate
Deal Announcement – November 2011

On the 14th November 2011, the Barona Group, the privately owned staffing and outsourcing company with offices in Finland, Russia, Sweden and Estonia, and one of the largest employers in Finland, announced the successful acquisition of Saranen Consulting Oy, an HR management services provider specializing in advanced and innovative recruitment concepts. By adding Saranen Consulting Oy to its already developed HR services, the Barona Group will be well positioned to serve the Finnish ICT business with a higher degree of industrial know-how, as well as expanding its range of services in areas such as resourcing, recruitment, international work forces, growth leaders consultation and recruitment training. In 2010, the Barona Group generated revenues of $163.7m, with profits estimated at $36,145 – up from a loss of $92,6380 the preceding year. According to a report in Staffing Industry Analysts on the influential staffing companies in Finland, Barona is now the market leader.  As a result of the deal, Saranen Consulting can also expect to benefit, as it hopes to generate revenues of $5.35m in 2011.

Plunkett Research predict a rebound in 2010 after an awful 2009 for the consulting industry. These are some of the major trends in the research ...

• More consulting firms will accept fees contingent on success
• Other industry sectors will move into consulting and outsourcing
• Corporates will develop internal consultants to reduce costs
• Corporates will want sold returns on IT investments
• Government consulting will be strong in the Transportation, Health Care, Energy and Cyber Security sectors
• Consultancies will move towards globalization
• Offshoring to India will drive changes in global consulting
• White-collar and professional activities will be offshored to a greater extent - BPO and KPO

Those of you timing your exit ,selling your consulting business, and aiming to make your equity realisation as tax efficient as possible, will be keeping a keen eye on what the new Conservative/Lib Dem coalition government is aiming to do to reduce the deficit through increased taxation and in particular how CGT will be targeted in that mix of measures.

CGT currently stands at 10% for the first £2m, then 18% above that, however prior to the Coalition agreement the Liberal Democrats wanted the 18% rate of CGT brought closer to the 50% top rate of income tax.

The expectation now is that CGT will be increased for non-business assets up towards income tax rates, but there should be large exemptions for profits from the sale of businesses in order to not excessively tax entrepreneurs.  Confirmation of the tax on owners of consulting businesses realising equity will have to wait for 50 days or so for the expected emergency Budget. 

Kennedy Consultancy Research & Advisory's 'Benchmarks in Consulting- Financial and Operational Metrics' report has identified an average 12% (approx) reduction in gross margins for firms in 2009. The spread from worst to least worst was 14% with smaller firms being hit the hardest.

This correlates with our sales revenue analysis outlined in our recent article on the 2010 Consulting Industry M&A Outlook. Our index on large firm revenue performance indicated that sales dropped by around 8% and our own small firm research identified an average 10% drop in 2009.

However that was 2009 and even at the end of that year our analysis in the UK small firm market showed that sales forecasts were much more optimistic.

The MCA (in association with Management Today) presented its 14th Management Awards ceremony to a packed house in London on 29th April 2010. The winners were drawn from a long list of management consulting firms who demonstrated that they were “business superfuel and could deliver faster, smoother, better results and go the extra mile for their clients". The winners were drawn by a panel of 10 judges made up of leading consulting industry figures including our own Paul Collins. Go to the MCA website to view the winners list.

We are about to publish our 4th annual Consulting Mergers and Acquisitions report looking back at how the market performed over the last year and it will come as no surprise to you to discover that the numbers with respect to deal values and volumes reflect a low point in the current economic cycle. However as we stand here in April 2010 you are probably more intrigued by what we think will happen to the market moving on as you plan and execute your exit or growth strategy, organically or inorganically.

If you want our analysis read on, or if you just want the conclusions go to the bottom!

Each year, along with our retrospective market analysis, we have attempted to predict the future and if we say so ourselves, been pretty close! For example, in 2009 we predicted that valuations in the form of revenue multiples (the best indicator of market sentiment from available data) would reach a low point of 0.9 and we were proven right when that happened in the 4rd quarter. The last time we saw valuations as low as that was in 2004. Compare that to the top of the last economic cycle in 2006 when 1.6 was eminently achievable for a quality firm!  So what is in store for 2010 and beyond?

We foresee two main market changes:

• A modest recovery in M&A volumes and values driven by big firm growth imperatives
• Deal structures with less up-front cash driven by the need for buyers to de-risk acquisitions

On the face of it herein lies a stand-off – we expect more demand but don’t expect prudent buyers to dip so deeply into their pockets, on the other hand why should sellers short-change the value of the investment they have built into their firms, or lock themselves into long earn-outs? However from what we have seen so far in 2010 there is we believe a win/win here. Before I describe where the forces for recovery are coming from and what a modern win/win consulting M&A deal will probably look like moving on, we need to understand the backdrop away from which the market is evolving.

2009 was a difficult year for the consulting industry

2009 was undoubtedly a very challenging and difficult year for the consulting industry.  After the collapse of Lehman Brothers in the autumn of 2008 many consulting businesses saw new orders dry up, particularly those companies exposed directly to the financial services, property, retail and other cyclical industries.  As they entered Q1 and Q2 of 2009 existing projects drew to an end and revenues began to fall. If we look at an index of revenue for the quoted US consulting businesses, these fell during the year by nearly 8% from their ‘pre-credit crunch’ levels. Similarly, an analysis completed by Equiteq on SME sized UK consulting businesses showed an average 10% fall in revenues.

Index of US Quoted Consulting Business Revenues (100= Q3 2008)
 

Clearly there is still uncertainty in the economic environment and some significant risks.  A number of European countries are in an extremely weak financial state, the levels of government debt are at worryingly high levels, thus creating the threat to reduced public sector spend on consulting. The banks are not readily lending and private equity remains subdued, removing one of the sources of cheap credit that supported the boom in the consulting M&A market we saw 3 to 4 years ago.

So the last 2 years has been tough for most Consulting firms. With client demand dropping by 10% shareholders and Partners in Consulting firms have seen share values and bonuses reduce. Not surprisingly they are keen to see this trend reverse! Indeed the ‘big four’ have publicly stated ambitious growth objectives. Attacking client markets and service lines with greater growth potential than others clearly makes sense. Acquisition is one strategy that could drive growth.

Forces for recovery in the consulting M&A market

We see three main drivers:

• Consulting industry consolidation
• Investment of cash flow
• Supply and demand

Consulting industry consolidation: There remain compelling reasons for a number of buyer groups to enter the consulting market and / or develop their existing practices.  Over the longer term, consulting offers substantial profit growth opportunities and unique opportunities for positioning other service lines. Examples

• Outsourcing groups – leverage offshore
• Facilities management groups – new service lines with higher Gross Margins
• Engineering groups – Global project opportunities
• Major accounting practices (eg. the “Big Four”) have made public statements that they seek to achieve substantial growth in their consulting practices, including through pro-active acquisitions (a change to their previous position). This has been substantiated by many recent deals.

Investment of Cash Flow: While banks might not be lending, they are also not providing returns on deposited cash.  Cash rich corporations in the business services market are therefore looking to invest with better financial returns, and choosing consulting businesses as a way to achieve a greater mix of high-margin business.

Supply and Demand: prices at recent levels have clearly attracted potential buyers in to the marketplace, where, often, they find that the best managed and unique consultancies in the most appealing spaces are under heavy demand. Examples include:-

• Environmental Consulting firms
• Regulatory Consulting firms – both financial and sustainability
• Operations Consulting firms – in particular cost reduction or profit improvement
  

Achieving a ‘win-win’ deal in 2010

The main question for buyers is how to acquire in the current uncertain environment without undue exposure to forecast risk. For sellers, the issue is all about price. With current price multiples at 60% of the peak of the last economic cycle, seller shareholders don’t wish to lock-in a price on the firm that doesn’t reflect it’s intrinsic value. Traditionally the use of earn-outs has been the main way that buyers have de-risked their purchase. Whilst earn-outs have been seen in a negative light by sellers, in today’s environment they represent the key to a ‘win-win’ deal.

The problem today is the size of the gap between the sellers view of the value of their firm and the price that buyers wish to pay. The buyer’s price today includes very pessimistic assumptions about growth. The seller remembers the ‘double digit’ profit multiples achieved in 2006/7 when firms were growing at record rates and is unsurprisingly reluctant to sell at a significant discount to these prices.

Even though a seller may have experienced a small decline in sales revenues in 2009, the sales pipeline could be looking more healthy today. In the past few months Equiteq has negotiated deals that de-risk the purchase for buyers yet provide double-digit EBIT multiples for sellers. A combination of some cash at close and an uncapped earn-out linked to the delivery of Gross Margin would appear to meet the apparent conflicting requirements of minimum purchase risk for buyers and maximum price potential for sellers.

In this environment, extending the period of the earn-out benefits both buyers and sellers, maximising the price delivered for seller shareholders and ensuring the acquisition delivers growth over the medium term. There are synergy and integration issues to be addressed with this approach and no doubt this won’t suit all buyers and sellers but it does represent a solution when the price gap appears to be insurmountable and that is likely to be a feature of many deal opportunities in 2010.
 
Conclusions
  
So what’s our forecast for 2010 and beyond?

Given the economic environment and trade levels in consulting, it is not surprising that 2009 saw very subdued M&A activity in the consulting market. On the other hand, while at the macroeconomic level the situation is weak, there are a number of forces that indicate a recovery of the market, not least because the ‘big four’ all want to put a year of shrinkage behind them and use their war chests to grow.

As a prospective buyer, 2010 should continue to be a good time to acquire with competitive multiples compared to long term averages and potentially some ‘first mover’ advantage by acquiring ahead of a wave of buyers who are waiting for greater certainty before entering the market.
 
Those sellers who have service offerings that are additive to the buyer in terms of product extension/expansion or sellers who can bring to buyers access to new clients/markets/geographies, coupled with strong management and good financial performance will complete deals at premium multiples. However, sellers should expect no more than 50% of a ‘good deal’ in upfront cash payment, and the remainder in a 2 to 3 year earn-out.

And finally what about multiples? With the forces described above, along with other indicators, we are forecasting that 2010 average revenue multiples will be in a range of 1.15 to 1.25. In fact from the 0.9 low point in 4Q 2009, in 2010 so far the average revenue multiple is 1.16.
 
So if you are intending to sell, or planning for that eventuality, now would be a good time to benchmark your firm and optimise it for maximum value within your exit horizon, and as you no doubt expect, we are here to help you on all counts if you wish!