Utilities contractor Avove has expanded its operations into Northern Ireland, through the acquisition of water and wastewater solutions specialist, Jacopa Ireland.
The deal, for an undisclosed sum, will complement Avove’s existing UK operations, by establishing Avove Ireland, a new name for a new market, supporting Northern Ireland Water.
Jacopa employs around 30 technicians and engineers and comprises a large installed base of products supporting wastewater treatment plants across the UK and Ireland.
“With this acquisition we look forward to collaborating with Northern Ireland Water and combining the strengths of the Jacopa team with the experience and capability of Avove to provide a thoughtful approach and exceptional service,” said Avove executive chairman, Mark Perkins.
Kieran Madine, frameworks manager at Jacopa Ireland, said: “Having spent my entire career in the water and wastewater sector, I’m delighted and excited by Jacopa’s alignment with Avove.
“This partnership opens tremendous opportunities as we join forces with a dynamic, innovative, and forward-thinking organisation.
“Avove’s business model, focused on delivering cutting-edge and sustainable solutions for the water industry in Ireland, aligns perfectly with our vision for growth and excellence.”
In AMP8, water suppliers are facing both environmental and regulatory challenges, including net zero by 2030, reducing sewage spills, and to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The purpose of Asset Management Plan (AMP) periods, set by industry regulator Ofwat, is to increase efficiency and service levels within the sector via capital programmes.
Avove currently has its head office in Newry, County Down, and a regional office in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh.
The group said its ‘strategic positioning’, complemented by its acquisition of water and wastewater solutions specialist Jacopa Ireland, will boost its capacity to deliver multiple projects and frameworks in the water sector.
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