On 1 June 2015, Sweco announced its intention to acquire Grontmij, a Dutch consultancy with about 6,000 employees. On 25 September 2015 it was announced that the acceptance level for the offer was met with a good margin. The integration of the two companies can therefore begin, which is the starting point for Europe’s leading engineering and architecture consultancy.

”With one move, we have become the European leader. We now have a more prominent role in planning and designing the communities and cities of the future,” says Tomas Carlsson, President and CEO of Sweco.

With the acquisition, Sweco now has about 14,500 employees across 15 European countries.

”Sweco and Grontmij complement each other perfectly. Both businesses are known for a strong customer focus and recognized expertise. Geographically, we operate in different markets, and this is a crucial platform for continued growth opportunities. In the long term, our ambition is for Sweco to have a leading position in all countries where we operate. Acquisitions – both large and small – will remain an important part of Sweco’s growth strategy,” says Tomas Carlsson.

Sweco has completed approximately 100 acquisitions over the past ten years and, on average, has doubled its sales every five years. Sweco’s acquisition strategy is based on the aim of being able to offer the right expertise for every project.

“Our customers can feel confident that we understand their needs and always have the expertise they need. Sweco and Grontmij sell expertise in a time of rapid urbanisation and climate adaptation. It is not difficult to recognise that there will be a long-term need for Sweco’s services. The acquisition of Grontmij is meticulously planned and is a natural next step aiming to benefit our customers, our employees and our shareholders,” says Tomas Carlsson.

A post-closing acceptance period will run until 9 October to give the remaining Grontmij shareholders the opportunity to tender their shares into the offer. For more information about the offer and its restrictions, please see http://www.swecogroup.com/grontmijoffer.