BGF invests in BB7 to create UK’s leading independent fire and security consultancy

BGF, the UK and Ireland’s most active investor in growing businesses, has invested £6m in BB7, a niche fire safety and security consultancy, to fund its buy-and-build growth strategy. BB7’s first acquisition is Omega Fire, Manchester-based specialist fire consultancy, which will broaden its geographic reach and service offering to customers.

BB7, founded in 2009 by Ben Bradford, has eight offices nationwide and employees over 60 expert advisors. The business offers three core client services, fire engineering (fire strategies to the commercial-build market), fire risk management (compliance-driven risk assessments on existing buildings) and security consultancy (risk mitigation advisory services).

BB7’s client-base includes building developers, local authorities, housing associations and hotel and leisure groups. Ben is well-known in the industry for his contribution to professional bodies and work with the British Standards Institution.

Omega Fire is headquartered in Manchester and provides fire engineering, computational modelling and fire risk management services through a team of qualified engineers. It is a fast-growing and highly profitable specialist in its sector.

The investment from BGF will support BB7’s longer-term growth strategy, providing the capital and experienced resource to accelerate its growth plans.

John Horgan, former non-executive director of AECOM EMEA, has been appointed as non-executive chairman.

Ben Bradford, CEO and founder of BB7, said: “I am extremely proud of the reputation the BB7 team has built in helping clients to navigate the complex regulatory environment in the new build and built environment spaces. Having BGF on board as our equity partner for the next step of our journey is a real a vote of confidence in our strategy and exciting plans for the future.

“We’re delighted to welcome Omega Fire to the BB7 group. The business represents the very best in the market in terms of expertise and customer service and will help us to deliver an enhanced service to new and existing clients across the UK.”

Rahul Satsangi, an investor at BGF, said: “Ben and BB7 are well-regarded as industry-leading experts on fire safety, with a high level of repeat clients thanks to their service quality and deep understanding of the complex regulatory environment.

“We’re delighted to support the team address the attractive market opportunity. The enlarged group will benefit from a stronger national presence, an ability to offer clients a wider range of relevant services and a strengthened operational team.”