North East firm leads on acquisition of Washington's Ian Farmer Associates

RSK has acquired operating assets, employees and the whole Ian Farmer Associates business, a site investigations company working across the UK.

The acquisition was brokered by North East accountancy firm, Clive Owen LLP, led by Angus Allan.

All 108 of Ian Farmer Associates’ staff are to be kept on, and business principals - Ken Marsh and John Marsh who have more than 50 years of combined experience - will stay on to assist the integration.

David Wilson, Clive Owen’s associate director, said: “We have worked closely with Ian Farmer Associates and supporting this disposal has been a particularly satisfying experience because the outcomes have been so beneficial for everyone involved.

“Knowing Ian Farmer Associates intimately allowed us to find the most appropriate opportunity for them, then anticipate and plan a clear journey through complex negotiations towards a successful disposal.”

Operating across eight sites, Ian Farmer Associates is to become part of RSK’s geosciences and engineering division, while both its name and brand will be retained as a wholly owned subsidiary of RSK.

Ian Farmer Associates has carried out ground investigations since 1985, building a client base including the likes of builders, engineers, architects and utilities. The company has an annual turnover of £10m.

John Marsh, a director at Ian Farmer Associates, added: “Joining forces with such a compatible company as RSK makes for a very strong relationship that offers us the opportunity to provide our existing clients with new services and to expand our offerings.

“Working with Clive Owen and TBI simplified the process, leading to a smooth transition, which allowed us as directors to continue focusing on the day to day running of the business throughout the negotiation process.”

Dr Alan Ryder, RSK’s chief executive officer, concluded: “I am delighted to welcome Ian Farmer Associates to the RSK family. The company has extremely experienced and skilled professionals who share our common values.”

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