Browne Jacobson advises international facilities management firm on latest acquisition

UK & Ireland law firm Browne Jacobson has advised Pareto Facilities Management on its acquisition of mechanical and electrical engineering specialist Sowga.

Pareto Facilities Management (Pareto) is known as one of the top 50 fastest-growing companies in the UK.  Pareto is a service-focused, customer-centric facilities management company headquartered in the UK, offering operational, maintenance and management services in buildings globally with a focus on future-ready, environmentally responsible facilities. Sowga is a specialist mechanical and electrical engineering firm dedicated to delivering high-quality, reliable engineering, maintenance, and compliance solutions across the UK. 

This acquisition marks the latest step in Pareto’s ongoing growth strategy to acquire leading technical services and engineering businesses across the UK, following its backing by multinational financial services and asset management firm Pictet which acquired a controlling interest in Pareto last year. The transaction will allow Pareto to expand its technical service capabilities, with Sowga’s skills in sustainable projects enhancing Pareto’s expertise and capabilities. In combining their strengths, Pareto will continue to deliver added value and exceptional services and support to its clients while also embracing technology and innovation.

The Browne Jacobson team was led by private equity partner Gareth Davies and senior associate Matthew Dorman supported by associate Alys Bratch. Partner Graham Ball and senior associate Thomas Donohoe advised on banking matters, with associate Christian Burchardt advising on tax. 

Gareth Davies, Private Equity Partner at Browne Jacobson, said: “We are pleased to have supported Pareto (and Pictet) throughout this transaction. Supporting the growth of private equity backed UK-based enterprises in their international market expansion remains a core focus of our UK&I corporate practice."

James Clarke, CEO of Pareto, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Sowga into the Pareto family. This strategic partnership will enable both companies to enhance value for clients and continue delivering top-tier service across sectors.

This ambitious acquisition is central to the next phase of our growth, and we’d like to thank the Browne Jacobson team as their multi-disciplinary approach has ensured a seamless process for us in this transaction.”

Browne Jacobson’s corporate department has extensive experience assisting both public and private clients on domestic and cross-border transactions.  The team has broad sector coverage, including retail and consumer, real estate and construction, manufacturing and industrials, energy and infrastructure, and technology.