Benchmark International

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the acquisition between Middlesex-based Bonnell’s and Essex-based fire protection system supplier, EA-RS.

Established in 1979, Bonnell’s is an accredited electrical contractor specialising in electrical and fire safety installations, maintenance and servicing, and testing. Customers are well supported by a multiskilled engineer base of seven electricians and three apprentices that maintain various types of fire, smoke control and electric systems.

EA-RS has grown to become a leading UK specialist in fire detection, fire alarms, fire suppression, and water mist and sprinkler systems, with best-in-sector engineers. The company installs and maintains a broad range of systems covering critical infrastructures such as data centres and healthcare facilities and serves several other markets such as commercial property, education and social housing.

In 2021, EA-RS was backed by Rockpool Investments and RCL Partners, with both investors providing capital to deploy into the group’s buy and build strategy to consolidate the UK fire and security market.

Since then, EA-RS has made 12 acquisitions, with three conducted via Benchmark International – Circum, Air Projects and Bonnell’s.

Chris Taylor, director at Bonnell’s, said: “This next phase of growth as part of EA-RS Group presents many positive and exciting opportunities for Bonnell’s. We eagerly look forward to learning more about the other group businesses and what they can offer our customers, as well as how we can support the group’s existing clients in this exciting next stage for Bonnell’s.”

Alan Wheal, CEO at EA-RS Group, commented: “The addition of Bonnell’s into EA-RS Group presents a range of new and exciting opportunities, and we warmly welcome the team into the group. Bonnell’s will be a great asset, and this acquisition further contributes to our growth strategy through cross selling synergies and specialist service delivery, particularly with our social housing work. Welcome to the tEAm!”

Guy Ellis, Partner at Rockpool said, “Rockpool welcomes Bonnell’s into EA-RS Group. The team at Bonnell’s will provide great opportunities for EA-RS to build on their service offering, and complements the growing presence the business has in London and surrounding areas. This is the twelfth acquisition that EA-RS Group have completed since our investment in 2021, demonstrating the management teams’ continued commitment to consolidating the UK fire and security market.”

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 


ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL:

Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $10 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook’s Global League Tables.