Today, one of the largest consulting engineering firms in Africa, GIBB announced its acquisition of a major interest in leading architectural practice, Stauch Vorster International. The proposed deal, which is conditional on, amongst certain other conditions precedent, approval by the Competition Commission, will create a multi-disciplinary firm, now capable of taking on the best in the world in a wide range of public, commercial and infrastructural disciplines and market sectors.

“Our ambition is simple.  We aim to be a world-class provider of engineering and architectural services by offering world-class turnkey solutions to our clients.  Adding the architectural skills and reputation of Stauch Vorster to our proven engineering capabilities brings us closer to realising that ambition,” explained Group CEO of GIBB, Richard Vries.

Kevan Moses, Director of Stauch Vorster concurs.  “This new partnership with GIBB will strengthen our existing footprint in Africa, and will enable us to broaden our capabilities in infrastructural disciplines,” he said.  Moses added that the two companies share a common vision of confidence in Africa, and are remarkably similar in their cultures – “an unyielding drive for excellence, a potent mix of commercial rigour and entrepreneurial flair supported by top talent and expertise”.

Importantly, Stauch Vorster will retain its architectural independence, freedom of manoeuvre, and its visual brand identity.  “Our aim is to rather focus on the synergies between the companies and enhance our value proposition to our clients.

Stauch Vorster’s strong footprint into Africa further compliments GIBB’s intention of growing its market share outside South Africa,” said Vries. 

Moses also stresses the importance of existing relationships and networks.  “At Stauch Vorster, we have always maintained that nothing but the best will do, and when we need to source complementary and specialist expertise, we adhere rigidly to our philosophy of excellence.  We have always chosen the best partners in the past. Our clients expect nothing less,” concluded Moses.