Portakabin acquires modular healthcare buildings specialist

Inside one of Darwin Group’s specialist medical modular units. (PHOTO: Portakabin/Darwin Grp)

Temporary accommodation manufacturer and rental provider Portakabin has acquired Darwin Group, which specialises in modular healthcare units.

Darwin Group is a leading supplier for the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), as well as for private healthcare companies and organisations.

Based just outside Birmingham in Telford, it produces turnkey medical facilities such as wards, clinics, emergency and diagnostic modules for complex, general and specialist care.

The deal for Darwin Group - an employer of around 200 staff members with a 2022 turnover of £80 million (€90.3 million), was agreed for an undisclosed amount.

Portakabin, which over the past ten years has doubled the size of its business, described the purchase as a highly strategic move that would be key to its long-term growth.

Dan Ibbetson, CEO, Portakabin, said, “This union between two of the most respected offsite modular builders in their respective fields is an exciting development for both Portakabin and Darwin Group.

“We are both passionate about providing the healthcare sector with the most comprehensive range of market-leading products and services, particularly given the considerable pressures on our healthcare professionals today.”

According to Portakabin, its scale, financial strength and modular building experience coupled with Darwin’s healthcare expertise will bring “significant benefits to healthcare providers across the UK”, whether they are seeking temporary or permanent buildings.

It is anticipated that Darwin’s existing employees will retain their positions, with the company’s current management team also expected to remain in place.

Richard Pierce, CEO, Darwin Group, said, “An incredibly strong culture runs through the DNA of both businesses, and our commitment to delivering quality healthcare facilities allowing clinicians to enhance patient care makes this a natural fit. We are truly excited to start working together to continue delivering outstanding buildings for our customers.”