The corporate finance team at Dow Schofield Watts in the Midlands provided key advisory services to CLoSE UK, a leading quantity surveying advisory firm, in its recent merger with Cumming Group, an international project management and cost consultancy. This strategic move significantly enhances Cumming Group’s capabilities in the public sector and facilities management market.
Dow Schofield Watts (DSW) was engaged by CLoSE UK to help identify a partner capable of supporting the firm’s continued growth and development. The merger substantially expands Cumming Group’s public sector portfolio in the United Kingdom whilst offering CLoSE UK’s 120 team members enhanced career opportunities within an international organisation. Additionally, it boosts Cumming Group’s European workforce to circa 570 team members.
Harry Walker, partner at Dow Schofield Watts, led the team, working closely with CLoSE UK’s shareholders to facilitate the deal.
Commenting on the merger, Walker said: “We were tasked with finding a partner that not only aligned with CLoSE UK’s business vision but also offered exciting growth potential for its team members. We are delighted to have secured a strong partner in Cumming Group, whose diverse portfolio and expertise in the public sector make this a truly strategic fit. We are confident this merger will lead to great success for both teams.”
Established in 2007 in Buckingham and with offices in Chesterfield and London, CLoSE UK works directly with facility management companies, focusing on the essential maintenance and refurbishment of government estates and social housing stock.
By leveraging CLoSE UK’s extensive public sector experience, Cumming Group will strengthen its ability to cater to the evolving demands of this market across the region. Building upon Cumming Group’s diverse portfolio, CLoSE UK brings a proven track record of delivering value to notable end users and government bodies supporting critical defence, community and social services, housing, and public safety projects.
Craig Maunder, Cumming Group’s CEO of UK & Europe, said of the merger: “The integration of CLoSE UK into Cumming Group aligns perfectly with our strategic objectives to expand our presence in the market while diversifying our service offerings. We are excited to collaborate with such a talented team known for their successful delivery in the public and facilities management sectors.”
A team of advisors supported the merger. In addition to DSW, legal advice was provided to CLoSE UK by Wilsons Solicitors LLP, led by James Johnson, and tax advice was provided by Menzies LLP, led by Richard Godmon.
Ben Allen, who will continue to lead CLoSE UK’s day-to-day operations and guide the integration, added, “Joining forces with Cumming Group opens up new opportunities for growth and innovation for our team members by leveraging the resources and stability of a larger, diversified company. Our shared commitment to delivering exceptional value to clients, combined with Cumming Group’s presence across the United Kingdom and Europe, positions us well for future growth.”
The merger brings together two firms with complementary strengths, positioning CLoSE UK and Cumming Group to better serve public sector clients across the UK and Europe. CLoSE UK will maintain its headquarters in Buckingham while continuing operations from its Chesterfield and London offices.
Alba Trees, a leading UK-wide supplier of cell-grown broadleaf trees, hedging and woodland management solutions and portfolio company of Cibus Capital, has acquired Christies of Fochabers, a well-established bare root tree nursery based in Scotland.
