Mon, 01 Jun 2026 | MBO/MBI
Wheatley Mechanical and Electrical Building Services (Wheatley), a Leeds-based mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) building services contractor, has transitioned to employee ownership.
Established in 1996, Wheatley provides mechanical and electrical engineering, design and installation services across a broad array of markets, including the industrial, commercial, retail and public sectors.
The firm’s clients include Rolls-Royce, HSBC, DuPont, Betty and Taylors, Whitbread, local authorities, the Ministry of Defence, universities and student accommodation.
The transition to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) aims to support the business’ future and preserve its values, culture and independence by placing ownership into the hands of employees.
The EOT transition, which was supported by RSM UK, will see Wheatley’s longstanding team remaining in place, with Nigel Wheatley continuing as managing director.
Nigel Wheatley commented: "Our move to employee ownership marks an exciting milestone for the company's future. Over the past 30 years, we have built a strong culture as a family-run business that truly values its employees and customers, and we are keen to preserve this as we continue to grow.”
"Employee ownership provides a platform for our people's voices and ideas, while giving them a genuine stake in shaping the future direction of the business. It's all Wheatley's employees working together that make our company so great. I would like to thank RSM for their guidance and support throughout the process."
An RSM UK team consisting of Laura Marks, Emily Marland and Ben Brown advised on the transaction, providing structural and tax expertise throughout the EOT transition.
Laura Marks, tax director at RSM UK, said that EOTs are “a business model that continues to gain momentum across the construction sector.”
She continued: “This move ensures continuity of the reputation and culture the team has built over the past three decades, while establishing a strong foundation for sustainable, long-term growth."
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