Independent Design House Group Acquires Clarkebond in Major Expansion

Move triples company size and boosts capabilities, with £10m turnover and seven locations globally.

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Independent Design House Group Ltd (IDHG), a leading engineering design consultancy, has acquired Clarkebond (UK) Ltd, a strategic move that significantly strengthens its position within the engineering sector.

The acquisition will increase IDHG’s workforce to 140 employees and expand its reach to seven locations globally, contributing to an expected turnover of £10 million.

The acquisition marks a major milestone for IDHG, which now operates across offices in Bristol, London, Ireland, Poland, and Maidstone. The company’s newly expanded capabilities position it as a multi-disciplined consultancy, able to offer comprehensive engineering services from concept through to on-site construction.

Clarkebond’s integration will enhance IDHG’s expertise, particularly in permanent works design, alongside its well-established strengths in temporary works.

Tim Burt, CEO of IDHG, will continue to lead the group, with Wojciech Wisnowski as partner, Ian Fernandes-Johnson as managing director of the UK division, and Michal Rzaski overseeing IDHG Poland. The senior team also includes Neil Marks, Clarkebond’s commercial director, and Brian Davis, head of finance.

Reflecting on the acquisition, Tim Burt said, “We are extremely pleased with the acquisition of Clarkebond and look forward to the collaboration between both companies. This is about mutual development and growth for the benefit of our clients, employees, and the wider IDH Group.”

Founded in 2011 by Burt and Wisnowski, IDHG initially specialised in temporary works design. With the addition of Clarkebond’s expertise in permanent works, IDHG is now positioned as a complete design partner for a wide range of engineering sectors.

Ian Fernandes-Johnson, managing director of IDHG, remarked, “This move is a game changer for IDHG. Clarkebond’s strengths align perfectly with our existing services, and together we will provide an end-to-end solution for our clients. It’s an exciting time for both teams.”

Neil Marks, commercial director at Clarkebond, added, “This deal offers exciting opportunities for our staff and clients. With IDHG’s infrastructure, we are well-positioned to grow, compete, and continue delivering outstanding engineering services for communities.”

The acquisition underscores IDHG’s ambition to further its presence in the global engineering sector, offering a broad range of services and expertise across various disciplines.

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