Member Article

Grant Thornton makes its mark with ESG deal

The corporate finance team at Grant Thornton UK LLP has advised fast-growing sustainability company Planet Mark, on its acquisition by Alcumus, a leading workplace safety and compliance solutions group backed by private equity group Apax.

Planet Mark, a leading sustainability certification and Net Zero pioneer, and a partner of The Eden Project, was founded 10 years ago by CEO Steve Malkin and has grown to a team of over 70.

It works with over 700 organisations to enable meaningful change, supporting businesses of all sizes on their net zero journey. With Alcumus’ experience, resource, and technology, Planet Mark will be able to significantly expand its offering and empower organisations to create a brighter future, at scale.

Alcumus has a longstanding commitment to promoting safer and more sustainable workplaces, building on its history as a successful and globally expanding enterprise. Steve Malkin said: “As we reach our 10-year milestone, it gives the team and me great confidence knowing we’re joining forces with such a dynamic company as Alcumus. We have a shared vision to create a better future and drive impactful change.

“With their international presence and established history of helping businesses thrive, this venture provides access to their vast resources, technology, and expertise, creating unique opportunities and renewed focus to drive growth and innovation in our industry. The possibilities are endless – we’re expecting big things as we enter our second decade.”

Alyn Franklin, CEO at Alcumus, added: “Alcumus is committed to measuring what matters, inspiring change, and making the world a safer and more sustainable place for all. The acquisition of Planet Mark is the latest part of our journey.

“This acquisition not only propels our growth ambitions but also adds tremendous value to our UK customer base and represents a monumental stride towards a brighter and prosperous future.”

Nigel Le Bas, Director, Corporate Finance, who led the Grant Thornton team added: “Planet Mark is an excellent, purpose led company helping its clients meet the challenge of net zero. We were pleased to support them on this important transaction that will help Steve Malkin and his team scale at pace.

“We are seeing strong investor appetite for businesses leading the way in the ESG arena – the Planet Mark deal is the second we’ve delivered in recent months following the sale of sustainability consultancy Carnstone Partners to SLR Consulting.” The Grant Thornton team also included Charles Cusworth and Lewis Jowett.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by John Robson .