AE Firms Project Increased M&A Activity Over the Next Five Years

Despite a recent slow down in merger and acquisition activity due to the economic challenges faced by architecture, engineering, planning (A/E/P) & environmental consulting firms in recent years, a majority of firms are considering a possible merger or acquisition in the next five years, according to ZweigWhite’s 2010 Merger & Acquisition Survey of Architecture, Engineering, Planning & Environmental Consulting Firms. While the percentage of firms reporting that they are currently considering an acquisition, sale, or merger declined from 2009, the report also finds that three-quarters of firms responding to the survey say that that their strategic plans involve a merger and/or acquisition within the next five years. “Buyers are starting to reemerge and focusing on growth initiatives again,” says Steve Gido , CFA, Principal, ZweigWhite Financial Advisory Services, who provides an in-depth forward to the 2010 Mergers & Acquisitions Survey. “And with organic growth activities, such as opening new branch offices or hiring high-level rainmakers still a challenge for many organizations, many leaders feel now is a great time to buy in order to penetrate new markets, geographies, clients, or service lines. However, despite the allure of lower valuations across the industry, prudence and patience continue to dictate their criteria and process.” The 2010 Merger & Acquisition Survey of Architecture, Engineering, Planning & Environmental Consulting Firms is a comprehensive look at merger and acquisition activity within the architecture, engineering, and environmental consulting industry. This survey features information on the types of firms that are looking to buy and the firms that are looking to sell. It also examines the firm size, location, services, and market sectors that buyers are looking to acquire. ZweigWhite is a full-service consulting, information, and education firm specializing in serving the needs of design and construction industry principals and managers. An electronic report or printed book is available for purchase from ZweigWhite at http://www.zweigwhite.com/p-881-merger-acquisition-survey-2010.aspx.