Consulting M&A Weekly Round-up (24th to 30th March, 2024)

Welcome back to another weekly round-up of consulting M&A news. We’ve got a few announcements to go through, none bigger than Accenture’s latest acquisition plus a few other important deals to go through. So, without further delays, let’s get straight into it!

#1. Accenture acquire logistics-focused Oracle partner Flo Group

Accenture has completed the acquisition of Flo Group, a Dutch company specializing in Oracle solutions for the logistics and supply chain sector.

Established in 2007, Flo Group serves a diverse range of European enterprise clients spanning industries such as retail, automotive, consumer goods, manufacturing, mining, energy, chemicals, and government. Among its notable clients are Unilever, Toyota, Mazda, Henkel, DHL, Coca-Cola, Kuehne + Nagel, and Tesco.

Andrea Cesarini, head of Accenture’s Oracle Business Group in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, praised Flo Group as a highly esteemed Oracle partner renowned for its expertise in crafting, implementing, and managing intricate logistics platforms. He expressed optimism about the collaboration enhancing value for clients across Europe.

#2. PwC explores sale of stake in Indigenous consulting business

PwC is said to have put up for sale its minority stake in PwC's Indigenous Consulting, as the firm's recent freeze on public sector contracts poses challenges for the Indigenous-focused practice.

Established in 2013 and led by Gavin Brown and Selwyn Button, both co-owners and managing directors of Wiradjuri and Gunggari descent, respectively, PwC currently holds a 49 percent share in PIC. The consulting firm has been under scrutiny for its continuous receipt of government contracts.

Sources claim that PwC Australia has distributed expression-of-interest documents to various parties, including private equity firms, Indigenous business organizations, and competitors in the consulting sector, in search of potential buyers for its minority stake in the Supply Nation-certified business. The decision to divest is reportedly mutual, though the exact price remains undisclosed, it's anticipated that the significant portion of PIC shares will generate substantial interest.

PIC highlights its comprehensive range of consulting services and its collaboration with PwC and its specialized services. By combining cultural, commercial, and community insights with PwC's extensive capabilities, PIC specializes in offering advisory services, developing strategies, and supporting their implementation to advance Indigenous policies, programs, projects, organizations, and enterprises.

#3. WSP purchases communications consultancy Communica

WSP, a design and engineering consultancy headquartered in Montreal, has completed the acquisition of Communica, a consulting firm based in Calgary specializing in Indigenous and stakeholder engagement as well as information management.

Established in 2002, Communica is renowned for its expertise in providing comprehensive stakeholder engagement services, particularly within Indigenous communities. Their scope of work spans various sectors, including oil and gas, mining, and utilities.

Under the terms of the deal, WSP will welcome 50 professionals from Communica into its fold. These experts will operate both independently as a distinct unit and collaborate closely on numerous multidisciplinary projects, as highlighted in WSP's official announcement.

Marie-Claude Dumas, President and CEO of WSP Canada, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, emphasizing the strategic importance of Communica's proficiency in nurturing early and enduring engagement with Indigenous communities and stakeholders. She underscored WSP's commitment to fostering lasting relationships and promoting sustainable development initiatives nationwide through this partnership.

#4. Aprico Consultants joins digital transformation group Yuma

Aprico Consultants, a prominent IT consultancy firm based in Belgium, has recently become a part of Yuma, a digital transformation group focused on the Benelux region, now boasting a workforce of over 650 professionals.

Established in 1998, Aprico Consultants has emerged as a key player in the Belgian IT consultancy landscape, boasting approximately 250 employees. The firm specializes in three core areas: digital transformation, digital lean methodologies, and agile delivery. Additionally, Aprico Consultants operates its own software development arm, operating under the brand name Freedom of Dev.

Christophe Delcorte, the founder of Aprico Consultants, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, stating, "Joining forces with Yuma presents an exciting opportunity to propel our growth and enhance our capabilities. We look forward to collaborating with the talented individuals across other Yuma entities who share our commitment to delivering top-notch digital solutions that generate tangible value for our clients and society at large."

Closing Thoughts

That’s a wrap on our weekly round-up of consulting M&A news for this week. If we missed out of any deals, feel free to reach out and make it known to us. In the meantime, take care and we will see you all again next week with another weekly M&A round-up. Cheers!