Following an initial minority investment in March 2022, leading European real estate consulting company, Drees & Sommer SE, is bringing forward its full acquisition of UK property and construction consultants, AA Projects, a year ahead of its original plan. Originally expected to take two years to complete, the working relationship and integration of the two businesses has been so successful that as of 1st April 2023, AA Projects will be a fully owned entity of Drees & Sommer SE, operating as “AA Projects – Part of Drees & Sommer”. The next phase of the integration will see AA Projects and Drees & Sommer UK come together as Drees & Sommer Ltd from early 2024.
The two businesses have already realised benefits from the partnership in being able to deliver a broader base of specialisms, and effectively combining delivery models, allowing new projects to be targeted and secured which directly support strategic goals. Clients across the hospitality, high-tech, logistics and infrastructure sectors have experienced increased capabilities and credibility from the joint offering, which, combined with the open and transparent cultural integration, has driven the decision to accelerate the deal.
As "AA Projects - Part of Drees & Sommer” the business is now looking to further integrate. Specialist teams are working across operations and culture to ensure the ongoing transition runs smoothly and that all stakeholders are bought into the overarching goal of making Drees & Sommer a key player in the UK market. The business will now focus on a shared vision for energy efficiency, the road to zero carbon and sustainable building - issues at the forefront of thinking for today’s property and business clients.
Through the acquisition of AA Projects, Drees & Sommer will be provided with opportunities for greater access to the UK and Irish markets complementing AA Projects’ existing business plan, and the joint organisation will be better able to focus on geographic expansion to the North American market. The new combined workforce within the UK will be over 230. Drees & Sommer will also benefit from AA Projects’ strong UK reputation and respected client base in both the private and public sectors, including in education, residential and healthcare industries.