Preston-based IT consultancy and expert witness business, IT Group has been acquired by Blackrock Expert services for an undisclosed sum.

This acquisition for Blackrock Expert Services allows the business to strengthen their offering within IT disputes and forensic technology, and diversify into new markets. IT Group specialise in technology, with Blackrock having extensive experience in the construction industry.

The business will now have an offering that has experience in working across civil and criminal cases, corporate investigations and having provided evidence in the High Court, Magistrates, Crown, County and world-wide arbitrations.

IT Group was advised on their sale by Ed Foulkes, of Clarke Wilmott Solicitors, and Cowgill Holloway’s transactional tax team, Lisa Wilson and Georges Daubney. Corporate finance support was provided by Paul Stringer and Charlotte Harrington.

Giles Derry, CEO for Blackrock Expert Services, commented on the acquisition:

“The shared ethos of quality, integrity and independence meant the two businesses were a natural fit together. The ever-increasing importance of technology in construction and the continued growth of technology, IP and data disputes means this will be an area where access to IT experts is essential. There is a scarcity of experienced IT experts in the market place. The combination is entirely consistent with our long-term strategy to provide excellence across a range of expert services.”

Tony Sykes, the founder and joint managing director of IT Group said:

“IT Group has been involved in some of the world’s largest IT disputes, as well as disputes involving technology in construction projects. We are really excited about the opportunity to advise on Blackrock’s projects as well as continuing to offer technology dispute and forensic services to clients across the Group.”

Lisa Wilson, Partner at Cowgill Holloway commented:

“Working with Tony and Jason on this deal was a pleasure, they’ve built a really strong business. They’re not only clearly experienced in the IT industry, but have shown their strength in building and running a successful business.

“There’s no doubt that there’s a clear synergy between the businesses in terms of skills and I’ll be a keen spectator as the success continues with IT Group and Blackrock Group’s new offering.”

Ed Foulkes, Partner at Clarke Wilmott said:

“We’re delighted to have helped Jason and Tony with the next stage of IT Group’s journey. The deal was completed to a challenging timetable with Clarke Willmott’s team all working to achieve a great result for our clients and an exciting future for IT Group.”

Clarke Willmott LLP is a national law firm with seven offices across the country, in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton. For more information visit www.clarkewillmott.com