Walker Fire continues growth through acquisition

Preston-based fire safety specialist Walker Fire has continued its expansion with the acquisition of Leicestershire-based Detector Alarms Limited and Hampshire-based Southern Fire Protection Limited.

Walker Fire is part of the Moyne Roberts Group. Based at Roman Way Industrial Estate, the business has 238 staff and offers services in the installation and servicing of fire alarms, fire suppression systems and other fire safety equipment, as well as fire risk assessment and fire safety training services.

Detector Alarms limited, which trades as Detector Fire and Security, operates across Leicestershire and the Midlands, specialising in the installation and servicing of security and fire safety systems.

The deal enables an exit for Detector Fire and Security’s shareholders Carlos Mendez, Scott Thompson and David Loomes. However, Carlos Mendez will continue working with the business and all staff members have been retained. Steven Mather of Nexa Law acted for the sellers.

Southern Fire Protection Limited operates across Hampshire, also specialising in fire safety equipment installation and servicing. The deal sees an exit for shareholders Michael Graham, Tracy Graham, Gary Turner and Penelope Turner, though Michael and Tracy will continue working in the business together with all other staff.

The deals are the latest in a series of acquisitions made by Walker Fire as it looks to consolidate its position as a leading UK provider of fire safety and security services.

David Cosgrove, managing director of Walker Fire, said: "Our goal is to become one of the UK’s foremost providers of fire safety and building security services.

"The two businesses we have acquired have operational capabilities and values that are very aligned with our own and further strengthen our service offering and national footprint."

Walker Fire was advised on the transactions by the corporate finance, property and employment teams at law firm Harrison Drury solicitors. Stuart Hinnigan, partner at Scott & Wilkinson accountants, advised on the financial aspects of the deal.

The advisory team at Harrison Drury was led by Jack Stephenson and Kerry Southworth in the corporate team, supported by Laura Bradley from the commercial property team, and Sarah Astley and Olivia Bailey from the employment law team.