Wallace Whittle acquires utilities infrastructure specialist

Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) and sustainability consultancy Wallace Whittle has acquired utilities infrastructure specialist Petrie Buchanan.

Founded in 2002, Glasgow-based Petrie Buchanan has previously collaborated with Wallace Whittle and now joins the group as part of its continued growth strategy.

Described as a “natural fit”, the consultancy provides multi-utility infrastructure design and management to housebuilders and developers across the UK from planning through to completion.

The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, strengthens Wallace Whittle’s service offering, enabling clients to benefit from streamlined delivery, reduced delays, and improved coordination across services.

Petrie Buchanan will continue operating under its own brand, with all current employees and directors remaining in place, while Wallace Whittle continues to explore further partnerships and acquisitions across the UK, focusing on Glasgow, Leeds, and Birmingham.

“Energy is the thorn in everyone’s side currently and with each project needing to consider it we’re looking to join up to ease those pressures.”

Wallace Whittle managing director Allan McGill said: “We’ve been actively pursuing our growth plans, particularly in England, and through the acquisition both businesses will be growing together and progressing towards our goals.

“Energy is the thorn in everyone’s side currently and with each project needing to consider it we’re looking to join up to ease those pressures.”

Petrie Buchanan director John Petrie added: “After 25 years delivering expertise for our clients in the utilities sector, becoming part of the Wallace Whittle group is a significant milestone to support our growth and succession planning as well as theirs.”

Since its 2021 management buyout, Wallace Whittle has seen “transformational” growth, more than doubling its workforce and turnover from £8 million to £20 million.

It has also opened new offices in Leeds, Birmingham, Manchester, and London, extending far beyond its original base in Scotland and Ireland.

Last year, it acquired Glasgow-based M&E consultancy Davie + McCulloch, broadening its expertise across data centres, education, commercial, residential, and more.

Looking towards 2030, it aims to expand its UK-wide presence, bring more expertise in-house, and position itself for the future while reducing outsourcing further.

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