Traffic and event management specialist acquired in cross border deal

A Humber-based specialist in temporary traffic and event management solutions has been acquired.

Clearwater International advised Scunthorpe-headquartered Road Traffic Solutions Ltd on its sale to Equistone-backed BUKO Traffic & Safety, a provider of outsourced traffic and safety management solutions in the Netherlands.

Road Traffic Solutions has six further depots throughout the UK as well as its HQ.

It offers temporary traffic and event management solutions through its divisions of Traffic Management, a provider of solutions for planned and emergency road works, and Total Event Solutions, offering security services for UK events.

Clients include utility companies, construction companies, event organisers, and local authorities.

Headquartered in Barendrecht, the Netherlands, BUKO employs more than 400 people and oversees thousands of projects annually.

It provides outsourced traffic and safety management solutions in the Netherlands.

It comprises BUKO Infrasupport, a specialist in outsourced temporary traffic management solutions to contractors and public authorities, and BUKO Waakt, a provider of temporary remote security solutions which includes camera surveillance, intrusion detection systems, and access control systems for construction sites. 

Since funds advised by Equistone acquired a majority stake in BUKO in February 2023, the company has pursued a growth strategy focused on building its presence in its home market and expanding into neighbouring countries.

The acquisition of Road Traffic Solutions marks BUKO’s first step outside the Netherlands, providing a foothold in the UK market.

Clearwater International’s team consisted of partner Michael Loudon, director Zack Goddard, senior associate Andrew Royle, and associate Ffion Jones. Gateley were the legal advisers for the shareholders.

Richard Green, managing director, Road Traffic Solutions, said: “Clearwater did a fantastic job guiding us through this process and I look forward to their continued support on our journey over the coming years.

“They have a deep understanding of the UK infrastructure market and that proved hugely beneficial throughout the transaction.”

Ben Dexter, owner and chairman, Road Traffic Solutions, said: “With BUKO, Road Traffic Solutions becomes part of a strong, reputable group with a shared culture and similar business values revolving around safety, compliance and good employership.”

Robert Emmerich, CEO, BUKO, said: “Road Traffic Solutions stands out due to its exceptional standards for service, reliability and safety, values which align with our own high standards.

“We are excited about our partnership with Road Traffic Solutions and our expansion into the attractive UK market.”

Hubert van Wolfswinkel, partner at Equistone, said: “BUKO has built up a leading position with long-standing, trusted relationships in its home market of the Netherlands.

“With a strong partner like Road Traffic Solutions, this acquisition represents the first step towards replicating this exceptional track record in the UK market and expanding the company via a targeted buy-and-build strategy.”

Zack Goddard, director, Clearwater International, added: “This transaction continues our strong momentum in the wider infrastructure services space and demonstrates the high levels of interest in quality, UK-based specialist players.

“It is also good to see the emergence of major European players seeking opportunities in the UK, a trend we expect to see continue in the coming years.”