Building consultancy eyes growth after BGF backing

A Manchester-based building consultancy has secured multi-million-pound investment to support its next phase of growth.

Black Cat has received funding from growth capital investor BGF, which bosses say will help accelerate its expansion across the UK and Ireland, increase its workforce and enhance the services it provides to clients.

Founded in 2015, Black Cat has grown to 91 employees across ten offices nationwide, providing building surveying, design, rating, mechanical and electrical, compliance and project management services.

The consultancy has managed projects with a combined value of more than £734 million, covering 83 million sq ft of property across the commercial, industrial, retail and public sectors.

As part of the investment, Ian Plumb will join Black Cat as non-executive chair through BGF’s Talent Network.

He has previously supported the growth of a number of BGF-backed businesses, including Emma Bridgewater and North West creative agency Evoke Creative.

Ben Golby, founder and director at Black Cat, said: “In the last decade, the business has gone from strength to strength. 

“Not only have we grown year on year, but we have challenged some of the larger players in the sector, built a uniquely transparent and very rewarding workplace, and won significant market share.

“In order to build on that momentum and increase our footprint in diverse markets, we needed an investor to take a patient and long-term approach to growth. 

“BGF stood out as the ideal partner, and we’re delighted to have them onboard as we expand across the country.”

The transaction was led by Josh Bean and Emma Cassidy from BGF’s North West team.

Josh added: “Since 2015, Black Cat has created a people-first business, disrupting the commercial property market through its transparent approach. 

“This formula has attracted some of the best talent in the market and enabled the business to make a tangible impact on both the commercial property market and in the regional hubs where it has a presence. 

“We look forward to working with founders Ben, James and Stephen, as they continue leading Black Cat on its impressive growth journey.”

Clearwater, Claritas and Hill Dickinson advised Black Cat on the transaction, while BGF was advised by Browne Jacobson, AMS, PSMI, Hurst and The People Business.

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