Member Article

Durham construction group enters partnership with Swedish house builder

Swedish house builder Trivselhus has established a 50:50 joint venture with Durham-headquartered construction firm Esh Group, following help from a Newcastle law firm in putting together the deal.

The collaboration which includes the incorporation of a new joint company combines Trivselhus’ expertise in building extremely energy efficient homes with Esh’s skills in locating and developing building sites and supporting infrastructure.

The Swedish house designer and manufacturer employs 230 people in Sweden and is part of Södra Timber.

Jan Johansson, chief executive officer of Trivselhus, said: “The long-term trend of rising energy costs is a worry for all homeowners. This strategic alliance is a great example of how the UK and Sweden can work together for the benefit of everyone.”

Brian Manning, of Esh Group has been working with Trivselhus since 2009, combining UK building and planning expertise with Swedish design and technology.

He said: “Esh Group’s partnership with Trivselhus has huge potential to create real opportunities for jobs in both companies. Our joint work to develop carbon neutral homes with minimal running costs offers a real solution to some of the challenges around sustainability which we must tackle as a society.

“This strategic alliance is good for the region. It provides families with a genuine opportunity to reduce their energy outgoings and addresses the growing need for more energy-efficient homes.”

Ken Forster, Managing Director of Trivselhus UK, added: “Trivselhus is proud to be part of this joint venture with Esh Group, which is a hugely well-respected North East business. This offers a fantastic opportunity for the north east to gain the benefits of these highly energy-efficient homes. The team at Muckle were a pleasure to work with and an integral part of our collaboration.”

Trivselhus approached the Newcastle-based law firm, Muckle LLP, to advise them on the joint venture with Esh Group who were advised by Swinburne Maddison.

Trivselhus’ legal advice, which was led by Muckle’s senior partner, Hugh Welch, assisted by partner Anthony Evans and members of the corporate team, included the negotiation of all the legal agreements and advising on the new corporate entity.

Hugh Welch said: “We are delighted to have advised this international client on their inward investment in the North East. The collaboration with Esh Group is great news for this region.”