Its UK arm, Strabag UK has agreed a recommended cash offer of 52.3p a share, representing a 58.5% premium to aim-listed Van Elle’s share price.
The move strengthens Strabag’s push to build a vertically integrated construction platform in the UK, adding specialist geotechnical capability across key sectors.
Van Elle is one of the UK’s largest geotechnical and ground engineering contractors with a national footprint, employing around 650 staff.
Last year it turned over £130.5m making an underlying profit before tax of £5.3m.
Earlier this week Strabag also announced the acquisition of Cambridgeshire-based structural steelwork specialist Crofton Engineering.
Andrew Dixon and Simon Wild, joint managing directors of Strabag UK, said: “The acquisition of Van Elle is an important step in Strabag SE’s growth strategy, strengthening our position as a vertically integrated market leader in construction services.
“Van Elle brings a highly regarded ground engineering and geotechnical platform with an established UK market position that complements our existing operations, and we look forward to continuing to deliver for Van Elle’s customer base.
“We are confident that the combination will drive additional value through our complementary client relationships and end markets.”
Van Elle’s board unanimously backed the deal.
Van Elle chairman Frank Nelson said: “Given the ongoing cycle, the Van Elle Board believes that the offer not only represents a significant premium, it also provides shareholders with the certainty of cash consideration and Van Elle’s customer base with a supportive sector specialist owner focused on developing its product offering.”
The buyer has already secured backing for around 45% of shares through irrevocable undertakings and letters of intent.
The takeover is expected to complete by the end of June.
