MilestoneSep 17, 2026, 10:23 UTC

CVC buys stake in UK consultancy Ridge after revenues grow 23% a year

What's the deal? CVC Capital Partners has acquired a stake in Ridge and Partners, a UK built environment consultancy, the firms announced in September 2026. Terms were not disclosed. CVC bought its holding from Horizon Capital, Ridge's backer since April 2023, while Ridge's equity partners remain significant shareholders.

Who's involved? Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Oxford, Ridge advises clients across the full lifecycle of buildings and infrastructure — from planning and design to engineering and project management. CVC is a global private markets manager.

By the numbers: Since 2022, Ridge has grown revenues at roughly 23% a year and more than doubled its workforce, from about 800 people to around 1,650 across 16 UK offices. Some 88% of revenues come from repeat business.

What's the endgame? Growth has been mostly organic, with senior hires opening sectors such as defence and security, science, and healthcare. Recent projects include the Northern Line extension, motorsport venues, and energy efficiency upgrades for Marks & Spencer. CVC's backing is meant to fund larger, more complex work and further acquisitions.

Why now? The deal follows three years under Horizon Capital, during which Ridge doubled in size and expanded into Wales and the South West through selective acquisitions.

Senior Partner Adrian O'Hickey said the investment gives Ridge "the scale and capability to grow as we always have," adding that "CVC understands the model that got us here." CVC's Dominic Murphy called Ridge "a differentiated business" with "substantial runway for continued growth."

The signal: The deal reflects continued private equity appetite for partner-led professional services firms with recurring revenue and regional reach — assets prized for their steady, repeatable income.