Sweco Expands Footprint with Strategic Acquisitions
Sweco, a leading European architecture and engineering consultancy, has reinforced its commitment to sustainability with two strategic acquisitions in the Netherlands and Germany.
By acquiring Valstar Simonis BV, a Dutch engineering and consultancy firm specialising in sustainable building solutions, and Frilling + Rolfs GmbH, a German company focused on water management and wastewater treatment, Sweco is poised to enhance its capabilities and expand its market presence in these critical sectors.
Strengthening Sustainable Building Expertise with Valstar Simonis
In a move that underscores its dedication to sustainable construction, Sweco has acquired Valstar Simonis BV. This Dutch firm is renowned for its expertise in circularity and technical installations aimed at enhancing sustainability, comfort, and safety in buildings.
This acquisition bolsters Sweco’s Dutch team by adding approximately 60 experts, bringing the total to 2,200 architects, engineers, and consultants.
Addressing the Green Transition
As Europe accelerates its green transition, the demand for sustainable and future-proofed building solutions is rising. Åsa Bergman, President and CEO of Sweco, emphasises the urgency: “Market demand for sustainable and future-proofed solutions in the built environment is increasing in pace with Europe’s need to accelerate the green transition of urban areas. With 75% of the existing buildings in Europe having a poor energy performance, buildings need to become more energy efficient and decarbonised to reach the EU’s climate targets.”
Enhancing Expertise and Capabilities
The addition of Valstar Simonis’s niche expertise in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and measurement and control technology significantly enhances Sweco’s offerings. Bergman elaborates: “By adding the niche knowledge and skills of some 60 experts from Valstar Simonis, we are further strengthening our capacity in the Netherlands in the fields of sustainability, comfort, and safety in buildings. The competence of the new experts will complement the existing 2,200 architects, engineers, and environmental consultants of our Dutch organisation, and together we will create more value and even more sustainable solutions for our clients.”
Financial Overview
Valstar Simonis reported a turnover of approximately EUR 7.7 million in 2023, while Sweco Netherlands recorded a turnover of around EUR 244 million in the same year.
The acquisition, finalised on July 5th, aligns with Sweco’s strategic aim to grow through acquiring complementary skills and expertise.
Expanding Water Management Capabilities with Frilling + Rolfs
Simultaneously, Sweco has expanded its footprint in Germany with the acquisition of Frilling + Rolfs GmbH, a firm specialising in water management and wastewater treatment. This marks Sweco’s first acquisition in Germany in several years and significantly boosts its presence in the water business sector.
Strategic Importance
Frilling + Rolfs brings over 60 years of experience in providing wastewater treatment solutions to municipalities, wastewater associations, and companies. This acquisition adds 30 experts to Sweco’s existing team of 60 wastewater specialists, aligning with Sweco’s strategy of combining robust local presence with international expertise.
Bergman explains: “In the past few years, we have executed a turnaround of Sweco’s business in Germany and we will now focus on expansion in selected areas moving forward. With this acquisition, we have increased our capabilities in providing water and wastewater services to the German market.”
Addressing EU Regulations and Green Transition
The ongoing green transition and new EU regulations for urban wastewater treatment and nature restoration are driving the demand for Sweco’s water resilience services, including water supply, sanitation, flood protection, and restoration of water ecosystems.
Governments across Europe, particularly in Germany, are recognising the need for substantial investments to modernise the water sector and adapt to climate change.
Financial Highlights
Frilling + Rolfs reported a turnover of approximately EUR 5.4 million in 2023, whereas Sweco Germany recorded a turnover of about EUR 167 million in the same year.
The acquisition was signed on July 15th, with closing and consolidation into Sweco expected shortly thereafter.
Sweco’s Commitment to Sustainability
These strategic acquisitions highlight Sweco’s dedication to sustainability and innovation in both the built environment and water management sectors.
By enhancing its expertise and expanding its geographical footprint, Sweco is well-positioned to lead Europe’s green transition and address the pressing challenges of climate change and urbanisation.
Future Prospects
The European Green Deal, coupled with stringent regulations like the Urban Water and Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD), demands significant investment in water and wastewater infrastructure.
Bluefield Research forecasts a staggering US$476 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure capital expenditure from 2024 to 2030. This underscores the monumental scale of investment required to meet the UWWTD’s criteria and ensure sustainable and efficient operations across Europe’s water utilities.
Strategic Acquisitions
Sweco’s strategic acquisitions of Valstar Simonis and Frilling + Rolfs exemplify its proactive approach to sustainability and innovation. By bolstering its expertise in sustainable construction and water management, Sweco is not only enhancing its service offerings but also reinforcing its commitment to driving Europe’s green transition.
These moves are set to create significant value for clients and position Sweco as a key player in the sustainable development of urban areas across Europe.
