Lowe's Rose looks set to bloom following sale to Francis Graves

Project management and building consultancy outfit Rose Project Services is planning a major growth drive across the UK and Europe following its acquisition by QS group Francis Graves.

The deal, struck last month and first revealed on the QS News website, follows the acquisition of Francis Graves by listed property group Erinaceous last year.

Rose founder and managing director Chris Lowe said the deal was the "right thing at the right time" and that it offered a "tremendous platform for growth in the UK and Europe".

Lowe said the £4m turnover, 38-strong firm would grow at a greater pace now it is part of a bigger company. "The issue is we are working on larger and more complex projects. This gives us a strong financial base."

Lowe said the market was becoming increasingly polarised. "There are big worldwide rollout projects for major clients which we can bid for now. I have always said that the train is leaving the station, you have got to book your place. Corporate clients want that strength. There is still a place for smaller organisations who offer a bespoke, niche service."

The train is leaving the station, you have got to book your place

Chris Lowe, founder and MD, Rose Project Services

Lowe was bullish about future growth at the firm, which has four core offices in London, Bristol, Tewkesbury, Bristol and Madrid and six associated offices in Europe.

"I think you will see us consolidating our position in the UK first, then expect to see some fairly significant growth in terms of national and international coverage, supported by the wider group."

Lowe, who founded the firm in 1986, said the deal had been swiftly struck. "We are a very clean and transparent organisation. I have never done anything like this before but for me it was remarkably straightforward." The Rose brand and name will be retained under the deal.

Francis Graves, who did not disclose the terms of the buy, said the acquisition bolstered the firm's service offering. "The combination strengthens our provision of high quality customer focused professional services," said director Richard Graves.