NG Bailey has acquired specialist engineering group ESG as it expands its infrastructure capabilities and strengthens its position in the rapidly growing water sector.
The Leeds-based contractor said the deal will enhance its ability to deliver projects across water, environmental and broader infrastructure markets, particularly as investment accelerates under the next Asset Management Period.
The upcoming AMP8 cycle is expected to be worth around £100bn, approximately double the value of the previous funding round, and is set to drive a significant increase in upgrade, maintenance and resilience work across the UK’s water networks.
ESG, which is based in Sutton-in-Ashfield, generates annual turnover of around £30m and employs approximately 180 staff. The acquisition increases NG Bailey’s total workforce to more than 3,600.
Established in 1989, ESG operates through its core business ECS Engineering Services and includes a portfolio of specialist operations covering mechanical and electrical engineering, steel and composite fabrication, civil engineering and advanced water control systems.
The group has built a strong client base across the UK water and environmental sectors, working with organisations including the Environment Agency, Severn Trent Water, Anglian Water, Welsh Water and Yorkshire Water.
Following the acquisition, ESG will continue to operate under its existing brands, with its current management team remaining in place to ensure continuity across the business.
Jonathan Stockton, chief executive of NG Bailey, said: “The acquisition provides a natural extension to our existing range of services and strengthens both our market positions, whilst opening up new growth opportunities for us in key areas including water infrastructure.”
