Belfast construction consultancy WH Stephens has completed the sale of a significant equity stake to Gardiner & Theobald, an investment-backed acquirer supported by Hennick & Company, according to Belfast News Letter. The transaction enables the 161-year-old firm to pursue expanded growth across multiple sectors.

Founded in 1865, WH Stephens delivers multidisciplinary construction consultancy services across Ireland and parts of the UK, including project management, cost management, building surveying, and quantity surveying. The firm's current portfolio spans health, education, commercial, leisure, residential, and hotels.

The shareholders, headed by Denis McCotter, managing director, instructed KBS Corporate to seek strategic investment to facilitate further growth. The objective centred on expanding the company's presence and capability across its range of sectors.

The equity sale provides WH Stephens with financial backing and strategic support to pursue ambitious growth plans whilst maintaining its operational independence. The transaction structure allows the existing management team to continue leading the business whilst accessing additional resources and market connections.

WH Stephens has built its reputation over more than a century and a half, establishing itself as a trusted advisor to clients across the Irish construction sector. The firm combines traditional consultancy expertise with modern project delivery methods, supporting clients through all phases of construction projects.

The acquisition by Gardiner & Theobald represents a strategic fit between two established construction consultancies, with potential for knowledge sharing and expanded service offerings. Gardiner & Theobald's investment, backed by Hennick & Company's capital, positions WH Stephens for accelerated development in its core markets.

The transaction adds 32 colleagues to Gardiner & Theobald's operations, strengthening the combined organisation's capability to deliver complex construction consultancy services across Ireland and the UK.

Review complete transaction details through reading the complete report.