MSS Group sold to RSK
Corporate Finance advisor BCMS has advised the shareholders of MSS Group – a specialist provider of facilities and environmental services – on the sale of the business to RSK.
First established in 2005 and headquartered in Cardiff, MSS Group operates primarily in highly regulated and frequently hazardous environments, providing a range of services including industrial cleaning, waste management, asbestos management, water treatment, and security services.
MSS Group’s 600-strong workforce services a customer base predominantly comprised of large multinational businesses, tier one contractors, and public-sector bodies. Acquisition by RSK is set to expand MSS’ market both nationally and internationally, following a record-breaking year of rising revenue and pre-tax profits.
“We chose BCMS to act for us based on what they told us they would do, and they exceeded our expectations in every respect. I have nothing but praise for their organisation and professionalism” – Bill Mayne, MSS Group
An international group comprised of more than 150 companies, RSK is a global leader in environmental, engineering and sustainability solutions. The business has grown organically and through strategic acquisition since it was established in 1989. With its head office in Helsby, Cheshire, RSK employs over 8000 specialists worldwide, and services a diverse client base in sectors including energy, water, property, manufacturing, government and transport.
Deal perspectives
As well as a shared commitment to environmental objectives, there are clear cultural and commercial synergies between both businesses. As Alan Ryder, Chief Executive Officer at RSK said: “MSS Group is another great addition to the RSK family and I am excited to begin looking at how we can all work together to bring the best offering to our clients. Through MSS joining us, RSK will be able to enter the facilities services sector and increase its compliance services in relation to water treatment. Our current asbestos offering is also now greatly enhanced.”
MSS Group Chief Executive Bill Mayne, who will continue in his role with the business, added: “We are delighted that MSS has joined the RSK group of companies. I believe that the opportunities created through the acquisition will enable MSS to grow even more strongly, to the benefit of its staff, clients and suppliers. Both companies share many similar values and beliefs which will ensure the culture of MSS can continue as before.”
Commenting on BCMS’ role as advisor throughout the transaction, Bill Mayne said: “We chose BCMS to act for us based on what they told us they would do, and they exceeded our expectations in every respect. I have nothing but praise for their organisation and professionalism, and above all they were a fantastic bunch of people to work with. Jim Whitaker was an absolute rock throughout the process and took away as much stress as possible. He became a key part of our team and we will miss working with him.”
Jim Whitaker of BCMS added: “Under the leadership of Bill Mayne, Robert Little and their outstanding management team, MSS has grown into a high-quality business of scale, with a desirable national client list, contracted revenues, and significant ongoing investment in people and processes. Today, MSS is a leading player in industrial facilities management, with valued-added specialist services in highly regulated areas including water compliance and hazardous waste. While all of these factors drove strong buyer interest, RSK quickly emerged as the ideal partner to take this business to the next level. It has been a pleasure to work on this transaction, and we wish everyone at RSK and MSS every success for the future.”
