Founded in 1981, R&W is a Southampton-headquartered civil engineering firm of 122 employees that boasts specialist expertise in the highways sector. The sale of R&W to Octavius will begin the “next phase” of the group by increasing its capability in the highways industry. Octavius continues to look for “complementary” areas to expand into through M&A.
Octavius, a Tier One Supplier, is a key supplier for public authorities, local governments and commercial clients, such as Network Rail, National Highways, and Transport for London. Sullivan Street Partners acquired Octavius in 2021, when it was part of the Geoffrey Osborne Group. The firm specializes in complex situations within the lower mid-market. Octavius retained Debrett’s Private Finance in order to identify additional opportunities to support Sullivan Street’s growth ambitions. The firm will continue its work post-deal.
Debrett’s advised Octavius through a team headed by Max Gimson. Principal Gabriella Eeles, and analyst Seb rowlands also provided support.