Gristwood and Toms, a U.K. tree contractor, has acquired Hampshire-based arboricultural specialist and fencing contractor, Foremost Treesurgeons. The deal will add £3 million in annual sales across amenity and utility arboriculture and vegetation management, in addition to land clearance and fencing services. The move will cement Gristwood and Toms’ position as a major service partner for public sector, social housing and commercial customers.
Enhancing operational capability and capacity across the south of England, the acquisition strengthens Gristwood and Toms’ position as the largest, privately owned, specialist arboricultural contractor in the UK. Foremost employs around 30 staff and Michael Jefferies, Director of Foremost Treesurgeons, will continue to work within the business. Clients span the local authority, corporate, housing development and utility sectors and include Hampshire County Council, Scottish and Southern Energy, Skanska, Amey and Bewley Homes.
The purchase was completed for an undisclosed sum, using no outside finance – demonstrating the strong financial position of Gristwood and Toms. Darren Kilby, Head of Sales and Marketing at Gristwood and Toms commented, “This acquisition is fantastic news and we are delighted to welcome new colleagues to the Gristwood and Toms family. Our aim is to continue to grow both organically and by acquisition to consolidate our comprehensive local service, backed with national resources.”
Director of Foremost Treesurgeons, Michael Jefferies added, “Gristwood and Toms is an excellent fit for my business and people that work within it. This transaction will enable Foremost to benefit from established systems, IT infrastructure and the professional resources and expertise that a large organisation like Gristwood and Toms can provide.”