Installation firm acquired

Leeds-based First Response Group (FRG) has acquired 100 per cent share capital of Harrogate-based Robinsons M & E (RME), creating a Â£25m turnover group.
Pictured: RME managing director Luke Kitchen (left) with Edgar Chibaka, director at FRG. — Leeds-based First Response Group (FRG) has acquired 100 per cent share capital of Harrogate-based Robinsons M & E (RME), creating a Â£25m turnover group. Pictured: RME managing director Luke Kitchen (left) with Edgar Chibaka, director at FRG.

The acquisition, led by owners Jamal Tahlil and Edgar Chibaka, is part of a 10-year strategic business plan aimed at growth and allows FRG to offer a wider range of services.

Mr Chibaka said: “This is an exciting acquisition for First Response Group. We wanted a business that fits seamlessly with our facilities management solutions company and Robinsons M & E’s exemplary client care record and varied portfolio have positioned it at the forefront of Yorkshire’s commercial building services solutions, making it the ideal choice.”

Robinsons M & E was established in 1963 and has become one of Yorkshire’s leading commercial boiler, air conditioning and electrical installation firms.

Based since 2017 at Bishop Thornton, the firm’s recent projects include £1m factory for Saint-Gobain, a £1.3m care home for the Fisher Care Group and £1.7m of work for the University of Leeds.

RME managing director Luke Kitchen will exit the business after a period of consultancy. Engineering directors Andrew Jackson and Joe Lee will remain in the business as part of its management team.