In a strategic move to advance its multi-disciplinary capabilities, Contollo Group has announced the acquisition of TACE, a well-regarded consultancy specializing in mechanical, electrical, and public health (MEP) engineering design. Founded to unite top regional consultancies, Contollo aims to build a leading national group that combines specialized expertise to deliver comprehensive engineering solutions. This acquisition, backed by private equity firm NorthEdge, marks Contollo’s ambition to assemble a powerhouse in the UK construction and engineering space, with TACE as a foundational partner.
Contollo, established with a vision to create a collective of reputable and skilled regional engineering consultancies, strives to set a new industry standard in quality and scale. Their ambitious master plan includes acquiring up to seven businesses within the next five years, particularly focusing on consultancies in the North West, Midlands, and South East. These acquisitions are part of Contollo’s larger effort to address the complex and evolving demands of modern engineering, supporting public and private sector projects.
TACE, founded in 1996, brings more than two decades of experience to Contollo. Known for its expertise in delivering MEP solutions for large-scale, sustainable projects, TACE serves a range of sectors, including education, multi-unit residential buildings, and sports facilities. This experience aligns well with Contollo’s goals of establishing itself as a leader in high-value, technically demanding projects that prioritize sustainability and innovation.
According to Ruth Percival, CEO of Contollo Group, TACE’s reputation for engineering excellence and commitment to sustainable design make them an ideal fit for the Contollo vision. She emphasized that the acquisition would not only strengthen Contollo’s offerings but also help achieve nationwide growth and expand its service capabilities. TACE’s existing leadership team, including Directors Nigel Griffiths, Nick Thomas, and James Massey, will remain at the helm, ensuring continuity for existing clients while benefitting from the broader resources and network that Contollo offers.
Nigel Griffiths of TACE echoed Percival’s enthusiasm, viewing the partnership as an opportunity to build upon TACE’s legacy of quality and innovation while expanding service offerings and operational scale. Griffiths noted that joining Contollo would allow TACE to maintain its high service standards and client relationships while gaining access to enhanced industry resources.
This acquisition adds approximately 35 staff members to Contollo’s expanding workforce, now totaling around 140 employees. As Contollo continues to identify and integrate like-minded businesses into its structure, the acquisition of TACE serves as a significant milestone that strengthens its MEP capabilities and paves the way for further growth in various specialized areas of engineering.
With the goal of creating an integrated consultancy powerhouse, Contollo’s latest acquisition of TACE positions both companies for a promising future—marked by operational synergy, greater national presence, and shared expertise aimed at addressing the increasingly complex needs of the engineering and construction industries.
For more details, you can read Contollo’s official announcement here.
