The utilities sector witnesses a significant move as OCU Group acquires Purestream Industries.
- Purestream’s expertise in water engineering and design bolsters OCU’s strategic goals.
- OCU Chief Executive Michael Hughes highlights the importance of Purestream’s alignment with OCU’s objectives.
- Founders of Purestream express enthusiasm for growth within OCU’s robust framework.
- OCU continues its expansion with ongoing acquisitions since its sale to Triton Partners.
The utilities sector has observed a noteworthy development with OCU Group’s acquisition of Purestream Industries. With a focus on strengthening its water engineering and environmental process technology, this acquisition is a strategic step for OCU, enhancing its capacity and expertise in the utilities sector. Purestream Industries, which was established in 2022, is based in London and Portsmouth and is known for its proficiency in water design and engineering.
OCU Group, originally founded as O’Conner Utilities by Tim and Tom O’Connor in 1994, has been on a consistent trajectory of growth. The addition of Purestream’s technology and expertise is seen as a pivotal advancement in progressing OCU’s aim to establish itself as a leader in energy and utility engineering excellence. This aligns with the recent appointment of Hugh McCrossan as the managing director of OCU’s water division and the company’s investment in the UK’s largest pipe pusher.
Michael Hughes, OCU Chief Executive, underscored the acquisition as a pivotal milestone in enhancing OCU’s water market capability. He cited the importance of Purestream’s alignment with OCU’s mission to lead in engineering excellence. This move not only enriches OCU’s service offerings but also reaffirms its commitment to advancing industry standards.
Representatives of Purestream, Nicholas Wise and Harry Mouquet, have expressed their enthusiasm regarding the acquisition. Wise recognised the opportunities within OCU, emphasising the company’s commitment to developing personnel and elevating industry benchmarks. Mouquet highlighted that joining OCU accelerates Purestream’s ability to innovate and enhance services, emphasising their focus on improving efficiency and sustainability.
OCU’s acquisition strategy is not limited to Purestream alone; the company has been actively expanding, evidenced by previous acquisitions such as Modus Utilities and civil engineering contractor RJ McLeod, among others. This expansion reflects OCU’s broader strategy following its acquisition by Triton Partners in August 2022, ensuring a robust presence in the utilities sector.
The integration of Purestream into OCU signifies a strategic enhancement of its water capabilities, aligning with its broader growth ambitions.
