Irwin Mitchell Advises On The Deal

Walsall-based groundworks and civil engineering company, M&J Evans Construction Ltd, has secured significant investment from private equity firm Bregal Freshstream.

Founded in 2003 by John Evans, M&J Evans has grown rapidly to become one of the largest ground engineering business in the Midlands. 

The business currently employs just over 650 direct and sub contract staff and has a strong financial track record, increasing revenue from £48million in 2014 to £100million in 2017.

M&J Evans’ customers include Barratt Developments, Redrow, Taylor Wimpey, Persimmon and Bellway. Following the deal and the additional support and investment from Freshstream, the West Midlands-based business plans to continue its rapid growth in its core Midlands market as well as expand into other regions of the UK. 

M&J Evans is the ninth investment by Bregal Freshstream since the launch of its maiden, €600m fund in 2015. Other UK investments include handbag brand Radley, specialist contractor Taziker and retail pharmacy chain Juno Health. 

Nick Dawson, Adam Kaucher and Matt Smith from the Corporate team at law firm Irwin Mitchell, advised the shareholders at M&J Evans Construction on the transaction.

John Evans, Managing Director of M&J Evans commented: “Bregal Freshstream’s support and advice will enable us to accelerate our ambitious growth strategy, both in the Midlands and beyond. Their track record of working with high growth companies such as ours means that, as well as financial support, we will benefit from their experience and strategic guidance. We are thrilled to be working with them and very excited about the future.”

Commenting on the investment, Giles Marshall, Director at Bregal Freshstream, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the M&J Evans team on the next stage of their journey. They have an excellent customer base alongside a strong track record of delivery that has driven customer loyalty. The business has strong existing relationships with many of the top housebuilders in the UK and we look forward to working with the team to develop these and other relationships going forward.”