Hines UK has made a significant investment in South Yorkshire, acquiring Sheffield’s largest retail park—Drakehouse Retail Park—for £50.75 million. The purchase from 90 North Real Estate Partners reflects a net initial yield of 7.0%. Covering 232,538 sq ft, the prominent out-of-town retail destination features 17 retail units arranged around a
Hochiki Europe, a leading manufacturer of innovative life safety solutions, is pleased to announce that its ESP intelligent fire detection range has been installed at a brand new 17,000 square metre storage hub near Galanta, Slovakia. The extensive warehouse facility, owned by KL Logistic, presented a significant fire safety undertaking
Arco, the UK’s leading safety expert, has launched its most extensive range of safety products to date, bringing over 140 years of experience and expertise, to their PPE and workwear range. The new range includes high-performance PPE, hi-vis clothing, chemical protection, responsible choice workwear, flame-resistant/arc flash garments, working at height
The infrastructure business will continue to leverage data to build new opportunities for both their employees and business, with training provided by Multiverse Infrastructure today announces that it will build out its data academy with Multiverse, following the success of its graduating apprenticeship cohort. In a move that will continue
The North’s most outstanding workplaces have been named, with prestigious British Council for Offices (BCO) Awards presented to six landmark office buildings across the region. On Thursday 3 April at Manchester’s Kimpton Clocktower, the BCO’s annual Northern Awards recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and
A growing shortage of construction capacity and a risk-averse approach to new projects could put the brakes on London’s development ambitions, according to the latest research from infrastructure consultancy Aecom. The findings, published in Aecom’s annual London Main Contractor Survey, reveal that many of the capital’s largest contractors—responsible for a
Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG) has announced the appointment of Greg Ward as its new Chief Operating Officer, marking a significant step in the company’s continued expansion and strategic development. Greg joins the specialist services provider at a pivotal time, bringing with him more than 25 years of leadership
Wates Group, one of Britain’s leading family-owned construction firms, has reported its highest-ever turnover – despite grappling with economic headwinds that squeezed profits. The company’s 2024 turnover rose by nearly 10% to a record £2.4 billion (2023: £2.18 billion), thanks to robust performance across key sectors including construction, engineering, and
Taking place at Birmingham’s NEC from 8 – 10 April, the Workplace Event 2025, is a key calendar date for the entire workplace and facilities management (WFM) community. By engaging with IWFM at the event, attendees will have access to the major insights, research and connections that will shape the
Enhancing LSH’s service offering across South-East England, leveraging SHW’s local expertise and strong client relationships. Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has taken the first major step forward in its mission to become the UK’s leading commercial property advisory firm by acquiring a majority stake in leading South-East England consultancy SHW. As
Hines UK has made a significant investment in South Yorkshire, acquiring Sheffield’s largest retail park—Drakehouse Retail Park—for £50.75 million. The purchase from 90 North Real Estate Partners reflects a net initial yield of 7.0%. Covering 232,538 sq ft, the prominent out-of-town retail destination features 17 retail units arranged around a central car park with 784 spaces, as well as two standalone drive-through restaurant units. The park boasts a strong line-up of national retailers, including Wickes, B&M, Pets at Home, Currys, JD Sports, Halfords, and Starbucks. According to marketing materials released in September 2024, the scheme had a weighted average unexpired lease term of 6.2 years to expiry and 4.5 years to break. Drakehouse Retail Park currently generates an annualised passing rent of £3.8 million—equivalent to £16.34 per sq ft. Situated seven miles south-east of Sheffield city centre, the park is positioned within a well-established retail warehousing hub. Nearby retail assets include the 600,000 sq ft Crystal Peaks Shopping Centre, the 80,000 sq ft Crystal Peaks Retail Park, and the 40,000 sq ft Crystal Peaks Village. Following the acquisition, Curson Sowerby and Font Real Estate have been appointed as joint agents for the asset by Hines. Green & Partners advised Hines UK on the deal, while Font Real Estate and JLL represented the vendor. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hochiki Europe, a leading manufacturer of innovative life safety solutions, is pleased to announce that its ESP intelligent fire detection range has been installed at a brand new 17,000 square metre storage hub near Galanta, Slovakia. The extensive warehouse facility, owned by KL Logistic, presented a significant fire safety undertaking due to its sheer size and the diverse range of goods stored within its 18-metre high racking. Recognising the critical need for a swift and dependable detection and evacuation system, KL Logistic entrusted the project to Pro Metheus Slovakia, a respected Slovakian fire safety specialist. Pro Metheus Slovakia designed and installed a comprehensive fire safety solution centred around Hochiki Europe’s advanced ESP (Enhanced System Protocol) range. Hundreds of Hochiki ESP optical smoke detectors were strategically positioned throughout the vast building, providing crucial early fire warning capabilities. To ensure complete protection, particularly within the dense racking, Hochiki’s FIRElink aspirating smoke detection system was also implemented, safeguarding even the most inaccessible areas. The entire Hochiki system is seamlessly networked via Hochiki’s ESP protocol. Networked Hochiki HFP control panels serve as the central monitoring and control hub, while ESP input and output modules facilitate seamless integration with the warehouse’s sprinkler system. This integrated approach guarantees a fully coordinated response in the event of a fire. Furthermore, the system incorporates a voice evacuation system. This, combined with the rapid detection capabilities of the Hochiki system, ensures the safe and efficient evacuation of all warehouse personnel in any emergency. “The scale and complexity of the KL Logistic warehouse demanded a fire detection system that was both powerful and dependable,” commented Tibor Lelkes, CEO of Pro Metheus Fire. “Hochiki’s comprehensive product portfolio, coupled with their sophisticated networking capabilities, enabled us to design a solution that precisely met the client’s specific requirements. The inclusion of the voice evacuation system was a key factor in providing KL Logistic with complete peace of mind. We are proud to have delivered a system that significantly enhances the safety of their employees and protects their valuable assets.” To find out more about the project at KL Logistic and the ESP range and the FIRELink system, please visit the Hochiki website. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Arco, the UK’s leading safety expert, has launched its most extensive range of safety products to date, bringing over 140 years of experience and expertise, to their PPE and workwear range. The new range includes high-performance PPE, hi-vis clothing, chemical protection, responsible choice workwear, flame-resistant/arc flash garments, working at height products, and gloves – all designed, developed and tested by Arco, focused on compliance through quality, sustainability and ethical responsibility, the range is Arco made. Arco tested. Designed to exceed industry standards, by Arco experts, with performance, compliance and responsible manufacturing in mind. The new range brings cost-effective safety equipment to customers without compromising on quality, included in the range: All Arco products are designed to the highest of safety standards, surpassing basic industry criteria and are rigorously tested in the company’s independent UKAS and SATRA accredited Product Assurance Laboratory and backed by its unique five-step product assurance process. The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) found that between December 2023 and December 2024, only 10% of non-member products tested fully met compliance standards – underscoring the importance of trusted suppliers.[1] Simon Allan-Brooks, Chief Commercial Officer at Arco, said: “At a time when non-compliant products are easier to purchase and harder to spot than ever before, workers need to be confident that what they’re purchasing will protect them. Our new range has been a cornerstone in our safety products offering, enabling customers to purchase all of the necessary items for their working environment at a competitive price, with the peace of mind that the products will keep them safe. “Revitalising this portfolio with modernised, responsible and optimised safety equipment, designed and tested by Arco means that customers can be confident they are making the ethical, quality and compliant choice. Our commitment to workplace safety has never wavered and with over 140 years of safety experience woven into every product, customers can trust that they and their workers are in safe hands. When it comes to protecting your people, chance nothing.” To support the launch, Arco is investing in national advertising across TV, digital streaming, outdoor media, radio, and paid social. The full range is also available to explore in person at the Arco Discovery Centre in Hull—offering a hands-on experience of Arco’s innovative approach to safety. Visitors to the Health and Safety Event at Birmingham NEC (8th–10th April) had the opportunity to explore the new range first-hand. The launch was showcased at the event, giving attendees a preview of Arco’s latest innovations in compliant, high-performance safety products—backed by over a century of expertise.Explore the full Arco range and find out more: www.arco.co.uk/arco-range Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The infrastructure business will continue to leverage data to build new opportunities for both their employees and business, with training provided by Multiverse Infrastructure today announces that it will build out its data academy with Multiverse, following the success of its graduating apprenticeship cohort. In a move that will continue to boost business potential through data-driven decision making, the upskilling initiative marks Morgan Sindall Infrastructure’s continued commitment to investing in its people. The forthcoming launch will bring the total number of employees who have enrolled on digital and data programmes with Multiverse to 80. Impact across the business has been substantial since the inception of the academy. The most recent cohort saw a 14% increase in individual efficiency during the programme – equating to more than 7,200 hours saved per year. Apprentices have used improved data skills to drive tangible business outcomes, from mitigating weather-related project delays, to reducing workplace safety incidents, to increasing visibility of potential quality issues. Following their completion of the programme, 86% of the graduating cohort achieved a distinction. One apprentice who drove significant impact on programme is James Macdonald, who developed skills in Python, SQL and PowerBI. He said: “I’ve already benefited from learning how to conduct hypothesis tests and build regression models in Python. I’ve been able to apply this in my work on our carbon calculation tool, to predict the carbon footprint of forthcoming projects, which will be really valuable. And elsewhere I’ve already seen value in data skills reducing time spent gathering information for reporting dashboards.” Multiverse’s 2024 Skills Intelligence Report revealed that in construction, 29% of employees’ time working with data is spent unproductively. Morgan Sindall Infrastructure’s continued commitment to upskilling, however, will enable its teams to automate processes and tasks, leading to a significant boost in efficiency and output. Sarah Reid, Managing Director –for Water & Highways at Morgan Sindall Infrastructure said: “The Digital and Data Academy is part of our ongoing commitment to developing and protecting our people, ensuring they have the right tools and knowledge to thrive in a fast-paced industry. Having the skills to harness data effectively will not only improve efficiency across the business but also create opportunities for personal and professional growth.” Multiverse combines work and learning to unlock economic opportunity for everyone. It works with more than 1,500 organisations to close critical skill gaps in the workforce in AI, data and technology. Gary Eimerman, Chief Learning officer at Multiverse said: “Data is transforming the future of the construction industry. By taking a forward-thinking approach to close the data skills gap, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure will deliver measurable benefits for both its business and its people.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The North’s most outstanding workplaces have been named, with prestigious British Council for Offices (BCO) Awards presented to six landmark office buildings across the region. On Thursday 3 April at Manchester’s Kimpton Clocktower, the BCO’s annual Northern Awards recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and sustainability, setting the standard for excellence across the diverse sector. The BCO Regional Award winners in each category for the North were: Highly Commended workplaces were: The BCO Northern Awards judging panel was chaired by Adam Tillis, Operations Director of Dragonfly Contracts, alongside Nathalie Baxter, Head of Workspace (Strategy) at the Home Group; Danielle Ford, Associate Director at GenNorth; Lee Treanor, Director at HBD; Richmal Wigglesworth, Associate Partner at Sheppard Robson. Commenting on each of the winners, the BCO judges noted: Winner in the Projects up to 2,500 sqm category, Henry Boot Group’s (HBG) new headquarters at Isaacs Building, Sheffield, is a workplace transformation that exemplifies modern, flexible, and sustainable design. The judges noted: ‘This relocation from the historic Banner Cross Hall represents a significant cultural shift, fostering collaboration and innovation. Sustainability was central to the project, which achieved a BREEAM Very Good rating and reducing carbon emissions by 79%. By aligning workplace strategy with HBG’s net-zero 2030 goal, the new headquarters enhances employee engagement, boosts productivity, and sets a benchmark for sustainable workspaces. This forward-thinking approach solidifies HBG’s reputation as a leader in progressive workplace design and environmental responsibility.’ As Refurbished/Recycled Workplace of the Year, the Foundation redevelopment in Altrincham is an award-winning transformation, repurposing the former Rackhams department store into a dynamic hub for work, leisure, and community engagement. Judges noted that the project revitalises the town centre, providing a new gateway with modern offices, co-working spaces, retail, and dining: ‘Foundation sets a new benchmark for urban regeneration, proving that adaptive reuse can drive long-term economic and social impact.’ Deloitte’s office at 100 Embankment, Salford, was named champion in the Fit Out of Workplace category. Judges said: ‘This award-winning office exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, setting new benchmarks for hybrid working environments. The 6,085 sqm space is designed to foster collaboration, flexibility, and well-being, incorporating cutting-edge technology, sustainable materials, and dynamic workspaces. This transformative workplace embodies Deloitte’s vision, creating a thriving community hub that redefines employee experience and business innovation.’ West Village in Leeds received the Corporate Workplace award for masterfully unifying two separate buildings into a single, cohesive estate, anchored by a striking 20,000 sq ft extension that forms a bold gateway. Judges said: ‘The 115,000 sq ft transformation redefines modern workspace design, prioritising innovation, sustainability, and employee well-being. The fit-out seamlessly blends biophilia, advanced technology, and flexible work environments. Key features include a fully landscaped courtyard and an open-plan entrance, eliminating a traditional reception to create a more welcoming atmosphere. With collaborative workspaces, wellness facilities, inspiring art installations, and Net Zero Carbon strategies achieving an EPC A rating, this project sets a new benchmark for contemporary workplace excellence.’ A double winner in the ESG and Commercial Workplace categories, Eden in Salford was highly praised by the BCO judges: ‘Eden is a groundbreaking, award-winning office development that sets a new standard for sustainable workplaces. This 12-storey, Net Zero Carbon building features Europe’s largest living wall – an astonishing 3,300m² of greenery with 350,000 plants, redefining urban biodiversity. As the UK’s first 5.5-star NABERS UK Design Reviewed project, alongside BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A ratings, it proves that commercial spaces can be both high-performance and environmentally responsible. Beyond sustainability, Eden’s social impact is equally transformative; it prioritises well-being, offering a vibrant social hub including local business Spice & Grind, wellness spaces, and a rooftop terrace.’ Oldham Spindles was given the Innovation award for its groundbreaking, adaptive reuse of a building that has transformed a struggling 1990s shopping centre into a vibrant, multi-functional workplace and community hub. Judges commented: ‘Oldham Spindles is an innovative project that reimagines urban regeneration, proving that underutilised retail spaces can be repurposed for modern office environments. It sets a bold precedent for repurposing failing retail assets into thriving workspaces. A combination of architectural ingenuity, sustainability, and social impact makes it a worthy recipient of the BCO Innovation Award, showcasing a transformative model for urban regeneration.’ Alex Stork, Regional Committee Chair for the BCO, said: ‘This year’s BCO Northern Awards winners exemplify excellence in office design. These outstanding workspaces demonstrate how innovative strategies in well-being, sustainability, and community engagement can create remarkable commercial environments where people take pride in working. ‘The North continues to lead with some of the most exciting office developments, fuelled by collaborations between forward-thinking organisations, local authorities, and expert design and build specialists. Our judges were highly impressed by the exceptional quality of submissions this year. We extend our congratulations to the winners and those highly commended, and we eagerly anticipate the ongoing growth of the region’s office landscape.’ The Northern region winners will now compete for the BCO National Awards in October 2025. More details will be announced soon. The lead sponsor for this year’s BCO Awards is AET Flexible Space. Gold sponsors are AECOM, Glamox and Troup Bywaters + Anders. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A growing shortage of construction capacity and a risk-averse approach to new projects could put the brakes on London’s development ambitions, according to the latest research from infrastructure consultancy Aecom. The findings, published in Aecom’s annual London Main Contractor Survey, reveal that many of the capital’s largest contractors—responsible for a combined turnover of £6bn—have already filled their order books for 2025. The slowdown in tendering activity, combined with cautious contract selection, suggests the city may face serious barriers to meeting its construction and housing targets. Tendering activity among contractors has dropped to 60% in 2024, down from 72% last year. While still within Aecom’s “steady market” benchmark range of 60–70%, the decline indicates a hesitancy driven by ongoing economic uncertainty and the industry’s adjustment to the post-Grenfell regulatory landscape brought in under the Building Safety Act. London’s annual housing target sits just below 88,000 homes, but only around 38,000 are being delivered on average—less than half the goal. Aecom warns that this gap is likely to widen due to persistent labour shortages in both skilled and unskilled roles. While the slower progress of housebuilding schemes currently masks the issue, the anticipated acceleration in high-rise construction—once regulatory processes become more streamlined—could reveal a critical shortfall in available workers. Despite these headwinds, the report strikes a note of cautious optimism. Contractors are reporting a more stable market than in recent years, with a healthy pipeline of infrastructure and development projects on the horizon. London firms expect inflation to average 2.9% in 2025—marginally down on this year and closely aligned with Aecom’s forecast of 2.94%. Brian Smith, Aecom’s Head of Cost Management, commented: “There’s no shortage of opportunities for London’s major contractors, but the combination of tight regulations, a depleted labour pool, and economic aftershocks has made firms understandably cautious. The collapse of ISG last September was a stark reminder of the risks involved, and many are choosing stability over rapid growth.” He continued: “If the government is serious about delivering new homes and driving infrastructure-led growth, it must also support the industry in scaling up. This means renewed investment in skills training and addressing the post-Brexit loss of European labour—otherwise, the pipeline of planned projects may struggle to become reality.” As the capital aims to meet future housing and infrastructure needs, the message is clear: confidence is returning—but capacity must follow. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG) has announced the appointment of Greg Ward as its new Chief Operating Officer, marking a significant step in the company’s continued expansion and strategic development. Greg joins the specialist services provider at a pivotal time, bringing with him more than 25 years of leadership experience across sectors including aviation, security, facilities management, engineering, manufacturing and construction. His appointment is set to strengthen PTSG’s ability to drive operational performance and scale for future growth. Reporting directly to Chief Executive Officer Nikhil Varty, Greg will be responsible for delivering enhanced operational efficiency, accelerating execution of the company’s strategic plans and supporting the transformation of key business functions. With a proven history of leading business transformations and building high-performing teams, Greg’s arrival signals a new phase of momentum for the company. PTSG operates through five core divisions – Access & Safety, Electrical Services, Building Access Specialists, Fire Solutions and Water Treatment – and serves over 30,000 customers nationwide. Backed by a workforce of approximately 3,000, the group has earned a strong reputation for quality, responsiveness and technical excellence. Speaking on the appointment, CEO Nikhil Varty said:“PTSG has built an incredible track record of delivering the right services for our customers, wherever and whenever they need them. Greg’s leadership and experience will help us take this to the next level. His ability to drive operational excellence, develop talent and execute strategic initiatives will be instrumental in accelerating our growth and reinforcing PTSG’s position as a market leader. I’m delighted to welcome him to the team.” Greg’s expertise in scaling operations, streamlining processes and unlocking value aligns closely with PTSG’s ambition to remain at the forefront of specialist services. His appointment reflects the company’s commitment to investing in leadership that can drive long-term performance and innovation. With fresh energy at the helm of operations, PTSG is poised to navigate its next chapter with renewed focus and agility, reinforcing its leadership position across the sectors it serves. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wates Group, one of Britain’s leading family-owned construction firms, has reported its highest-ever turnover – despite grappling with economic headwinds that squeezed profits. The company’s 2024 turnover rose by nearly 10% to a record £2.4 billion (2023: £2.18 billion), thanks to robust performance across key sectors including construction, engineering, and property services. However, pre-tax profits dropped significantly to £2.6 million, down from £44.9 million the previous year. Stripping out exceptional costs, underlying profit before tax stood at £31.4 million – still a sizeable fall from 2023. Operating profit also took a hit, with the group posting a small loss of £300,000 compared to a £44.6 million profit the year before. Despite the squeeze on profit margins, Wates remains bullish about the future. Its forward order book has surged to £8.64 billion, with year-end cash reserves up £57.6 million to £195.6 million – a strong platform for continued, sustainable growth. A major driver of both growth and expansion was the acquisition of Liberty Group, a move that added around 1,100 employees and boosted Wates’ total workforce to nearly 6,000. As a result, Wates now maintains around 600,000 social homes – equating to one in seven across England. The company’s profitability was dented by several factors, including higher administrative expenses driven by a major pension fund restructure. In 2024, Wates transferred members’ defined benefits to specialist Clara-Pensions, a move aimed at providing long-term financial security while de-risking the group’s pension liabilities. Chief Financial Officer Philip Wainwright said: “For the 25th consecutive year, Wates Group has delivered a profit before tax – a major achievement given the headwinds we faced. The pension transfer was a landmark step for the business and a key contributor to this year’s exceptional items.” The group’s solid turnover performance was underpinned by large-scale private and public-sector construction projects, SES Engineering Services, fit-out and refurbishment work through Smartspace, and significant growth within Property Services. However, a sharp rise in administrative costs – up £46.7 million – and increased losses from joint venture projects placed pressure on margins. A quieter year for land sales and some loss-making project closures also contributed to the dip in profitability. Still, Wainwright highlighted that gross profit rose by £32 million, with strong performances from SES, Smartspace and Property Services helping to cushion the impact. Chief Executive Eoghan O’Lionaird added: “We are performing well overall, with positive headline results: record turnover, a record order book, and 25 years of profit. 2024 was a year of progress and consolidation – and we’re well positioned to accelerate in 2025.” The company celebrated a number of high-profile contract wins in 2024. These include a major regeneration scheme in Gresham, Middlesbrough; the Victoria House life science hubs for Oxford Properties in London; and Ministry of Justice fit-out projects. Work also began on expanding HMP Highpoint in Suffolk, delivering 741 new prison places. Wates’ Property Services division had a standout year, increasing turnover by 30% to £547.2 million and expanding its forward order book to £2.7 billion – bolstered further by the Liberty Group acquisition. The division also secured work with the Peabody housing association, London Borough of Brent, and A2 Dominion through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund. Meanwhile, SES notched up record wins across a range of sectors including sport, education, commercial, and life sciences – reinforcing Wates’ position as a go-to partner for complex, high-spec projects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Taking place at Birmingham’s NEC from 8 – 10 April, the Workplace Event 2025, is a key calendar date for the entire workplace and facilities management (WFM) community. By engaging with IWFM at the event, attendees will have access to the major insights, research and connections that will shape the sector in the time to come. Here are five reasons why, based on IWFM’s agenda. 1. Gain a competitive edge with “Outlook 2025: Advantage WFM?” Kick off the event with this session on day one, at 12:30 at the main stage, which analyses the latest business and economic factors impacting the WFM sector, revealing critical workspace trends from IWFM’s 2025 Market Outlook Survey research. Discover how to optimise investments, boost productivity and keep ahead of the competition. 2. Boost your teams through upskilling at “Future-Ready Teams, Competent Organisations: Upskilling to Unlock Workplace Value.” On day two at 11:15, don’t miss this main stage event which addresses the skills crisis in WFM and explores how strategic upskilling can achieve workplace objectives. Learn actionable strategies to cultivate competence and understand the impact of effective skills development. 3. Realise maximum value with “IM and Strategic Asset Management as the Gateways to an Optimised Built Environment.” On day three, join us at the main stage at 10:30 for a session which focuses on data and planning, where this session’s panel will discuss how robust standards support better decision-making and long-term resilience in the built environment. Seize the chance to learn how to tackle maintenance backlogs and implement a sector-led approach to information management. 4. Boost your CPD with a visit to Professional Development Health Clinic Whatever career stage you’re at, get CPD advice and guidance from our advisors on how you can advance your career. Discover more about IWFM’s professional development offering and how it enables you to make the most of your skills and insight in WFM. You can take the assessment now and discuss your results with the team at the event. 5. Connect and grow with the IWFM community Expand your network at the day two Networking Drinks Reception, taking place from 16:00, and meet the dedicated volunteers who drive IWFM’s Regions, Networks and Special Interest Groups. They will be on the stand for the entirety of the event, remember to pop by and say hello! Don’t miss the chance to gain valuable knowledge, build essential connections and discover exclusive training offers. Register to attend the event today. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Enhancing LSH’s service offering across South-East England, leveraging SHW’s local expertise and strong client relationships. Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has taken the first major step forward in its mission to become the UK’s leading commercial property advisory firm by acquiring a majority stake in leading South-East England consultancy SHW. As part of Connells Group—owned by Skipton Building Society and the UK’s largest residential estate agency—LSH is expanding rapidly through a mix of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. This strategic partnership is a key plank of LSH’s growth plan, and strengthens its regional commitment to providing best-in-class services. LSH and SHW share a belief in local insight, strong client relationships and hands-on service delivery. SHW will continue operating as a partnership under its name across its ten offices in South-East England, including Brighton, Eastbourne, Fleet, Worthing, Crawley, Leatherhead, Kingston, Bromley, Croydon and London’s West End. Its suite of services, from agency and transactions to architecture, planning and building consultancy, with a team of over 200 professionals, perfectly complements LSH’s nationwide network of 30 offices and 15 service lines. Together, LSH and SHW will provide enhanced reach that deepens their client service capabilities across England, while providing even greater opportunities for their talent to flourish. Ezra Nahome, Chief Executive of Lambert Smith Hampton, said: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity of investing in SHW. We see significant opportunity to drive revenue and grow profits. SHW are a great firm with a winning culture. This investment endorses our commitment to the growth in regions in the UK.” Russell Markham, Managing Partner of SHW, said: “This collaboration marks a significant step forward, enabling SHW to accelerate corporate growth and help to achieve our key business expansion objectives. Through this partnership, we look forward to further enhancing our service offering to clients whilst expanding our reach across the South and within the property industry. “In particular, the investment will also allow us to expand into Kent and Essex to widen our client services and reach.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals