First Response acquires Robinsons M&E

UK: Leeds-based First Response Group (FRG) has acquired Harrogate-based contractor Robinsons M&E (RME), creating a £25m turnover company.

The acquisition, led by FRG owners Jamal Tahlil and Edgar Chibaka, is said to form part of a 10-year strategic business plan which seeks growth both organically and through acquisitions.

Robinsons M&E was established in 1963 and has become one of Yorkshire’s leading commercial boiler, air conditioning and electrical installation firms. In 2017, the company relocated to Bishop Thornton, on the outskirts of Harrogate, occupying 2,170ft² of ground floor space at Oakwood Park Business Centre.

First Response Group was founded in 2007 and provides a range of services including integrated security, M&E building services and facilities management. A £15m turnover company, FRG has a nationwide presence with eight branches including London and Cardiff.

The acquisition of RME allows FRG to offer a wider range of services to its existing and expanding client base and complements its business ethos of providing customers with the best service and innovation.

Describing the deal as an exciting acquisition, FRG director Edgar Chibaka said: “We wanted a business that fitted seamlessly with our facilities management solutions company and Robinsons M&E’s exemplary client care record and varied portfolio have positioned it at the forefront of Yorkshire’s commercial building services solutions, making it the ideal choice.”

RME managing director Luke Kitchen will exit the business after a period of consultancy. Engineering directors Andrew Jackson and Joe Lee will remain in the business and part of its management team.