Private equity firm YFM Equity Partners has invested in Newark-based built environment consultancy BE Design as the business sets its sights on further expansion and potential acquisitions.
The value of the deal has not been disclosed.
BE Design, founded by Anna Tsartsari and Stephen Oakden, provides civil and structural engineering, geo-environmental, highways, architecture, health and safety, mechanical and electrical engineering and ESG services.
The consultancy specialises in complex brownfield and former industrial sites, working across sectors including logistics, industrial development and data centres in the UK and Europe.
YFM’s investment will be used to expand BE Design’s services, recruit staff and strengthen its position in its core markets, with acquisitions also identified as an opportunity in what the investor described as a fragmented sector.
The deal follows more than a decade of growth for BE Design and the opening of a new London office.
Tsartsari, chief executive of BE Design, said: “We’ve spent over a decade building a business known for taking on the sites and challenges others shy away from, and we’ve done it by investing in exceptional people. YFM understood that from our first conversation, and that’s exactly why this partnership feels right.
“This investment gives us the backing to continue investing in our people, deepen our culture and push innovation further, while staying true to the way we’ve always worked. It’s a huge moment for BE Design, and I couldn’t be prouder of what this team has built and where we’re taking it next.”
Dan Freed led the investment for YFM alongside Oliver Wheatley.
Freed said: “Anna and Stephen have built a consultancy with a genuine specialism – the technical capability to unlock complex sites that others can’t, in end markets with real momentum behind them.
“The quality of the team, the strength of their client relationships and the clear opportunity for organic growth, complemented by strong potential for M&A in a growing fragmented market, made this a compelling investment. We’re looking forward to working with the team on the next stage of the journey.”
Richard Sanders will join BE Design as chairman following the investment.
YFM’s deal team comprised Freed, Wheatley and Neil Inskip.
YFM was advised by Debretts on corporate finance, Freeths on legal matters, FRP on financial due diligence, PMSI on commercial due diligence, Leckie Kershaw on technology, Human Factor Health Check on organisational matters, Partners& on insurance and Claritas on tax.
BE Design was advised by Bishopsgate on corporate finance, Roythornes on legal matters and Duncan & Toplis on tax.
