Health and safety training provider acquired in £30m deal

B2B information and data provider Wilmington has acquired a Cannock-based provider of workforce health and safety training in a £30.25m deal.

Phoenix Health & Safety was established in 2005 by Nick Higginson and has grown to employ more than 50 staff and operate from more than 30 venues. It delivers training to global blue-chip clients and industry professionals for a wide range of internationally recognised health, safety and environmental qualifications.

London-listed Wilmington has acquired Phoenix to boost its provision of training and education to regulated customers, as well as to expand the group’s position in the growing health and safety training market. The addition of Phonix complements Wilmington’s purchase of Astutis, which was acquired in November 2023.

Mark Milner, CEO of Wilmington said: “This acquisition strengthens our offering to customers in the health, safety and environmental markets and will be earnings enhancing from day one.

“Phoenix Health & Safety is an excellent addition to our group, with a strong fit with our core strategic focus on GRC, a differentiated competitive position which is built on superior outcomes for customers, a strong management team, and an attractive financial profile.

“Phoenix Health & Safety has excellent capabilities in digital learning and we are excited by the opportunity to partner with Nick and his team to support the next phase of the company’s growth.”