BGF has completed a multi-million-pound investment in transport-led engineering and environmental consultancy, Rappor. The funding will support the business as it expands its footprint across the UK, grows its team and broadens the services available to clients.
Founded by Adam Padmore in 2014, Cheltenham-headquartered Rappor has grown into a leading consultancy with 95 employees and a nationwide presence across offices in Bristol, Bedford, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and London.
The business supports more than 700 clients across strategic land, residential, commercial, industrial, retail and public sector projects, helping them navigate the planning process and progress developments from initial concepts through to delivery.
With BGF’s support, Rappor plans to continue growing its regional presence, invest further in its people and capabilities, and explore opportunities to expand through acquisition where it complements existing services and adds extra value to clients and partners. The deal for BGF was led by Louis Hall, James Skade and Alex Garfitt.
Adam Padmore, Founder and CEO at Rappor, said: “We support clients at a critical stage in the planning process and beyond, helping them move projects forward with confidence across the built environment. As planning policy becomes more demanding and environmental requirements evolve, our role is becoming increasingly important to achieving outcomes which balance project viability and delivering more sustainable communities.
“BGF’s backing allows us to continue our growth trajectory, invest further in our team and build out the services our clients need. We’ve found a partner in BGF that understands the pace and nature of our growth, making them a strong fit for the next stage.”
As part of the investment, Monica Collings OBE, will join Rappor as Chair, sourced through BGF’s Talent Network. Monica brings extensive experience scaling professional services businesses operating at the intersection between the energy sector and the built environment.
Matt Hilton, former Managing Director of Hydrock, will join as COO, alongside Mike Yiannis, former Hydrock CFO, as CFO, who both join with an open-ended and outcomes-focused mandate to help Rappor develop the structure, tools and people to achieve a successful and sustainable transition through this period of growth, ensuring long term stability.
Alex Garfitt, Partner at BGF, said: “Rappor has built an excellent reputation in environmental consulting, with a clear focus on delivering high-quality service and building long-term client relationships. The business is well positioned at the front end of the planning process, where demand for specialist expertise is growing.
“With opportunities to expand geographically, broaden its service offering and pursue selective acquisitions, Rappor has a clear path for growth. We’re pleased to be backing Adam and the team as they scale the business.”
