BHW Advise SML Group on First Acquisition Following Funding Deal

Prominent UK-based property surveying group, SML, has completed the acquisition of Construction Design Solutions Limited (CDS), a leading consulting engineering firm. This acquisition marks a significant step forward for SML in its pursuit of expansion and enhanced service offerings.

SML Group’s acquisition of CDS comes on the heels of securing a substantial seven-figure debt funding package from Frontier Development Capital (FDC), a testament to SML’s proactive growth strategy and market potential. With a turnover that has doubled to £12m in just 18 months, SML Group is poised for rapid expansion over the next five years, driven by both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

Established in 2005 and headquartered in Beeston, Nottinghamshire, CDS specialises in providing property surveying services, boasting extensive expertise in civil, structural, highway, and drainage engineering design and analysis on projects across commercial and domestic sectors throughout the Midlands and the UK.

Led by founder and group CEO, Tom Harpin, SML Group, headquartered in Leicester, comprises of companies dedicated to land, building, and valuation surveying. Tom said: “We have a proven history of effectively integrating and expanding the companies we acquire. Given the fragmented nature of the surveying market with numerous small firms, we perceive ample opportunity for additional acquisitions.”

Matt Worsnop, Corporate Partner at BHW, advised SML on the acquisition and recent funding deal. Matt said: “SML Group has a clear plan for expansion, and the recent funding will enable them to seize opportunities and continue on their growth path. We are excited to continue to assist Tom and SML as they enter the next phase of their development journey.”

Tom added: “BHW has played an integral role in SML’s acquisitions in recent years. Matt’s ongoing support in legal and commercial matters has been crucial to SML Group realising its growth ambitions”.

“As SML embarks on its next phase of development, we don’t hesitate to continue to engage with Matt and BHW as our strategic legal partner, as the company remains steadfast in its commitment to deliver expansion and drive innovation in the property surveying sector.”