First Compliance Group, a specialist in compliance, training, and regulatory safety, has acquired Wrexham-based Duct Hygiene Ltd in a move designed to expand its national footprint and strengthen its position within the ventilation and cleaning sectors. The value of the seven-figure deal has not been disclosed, but the acquisition is expected to play a key role in growing both companies’ reach across the UK.
Founded in 2004, Duct Hygiene provides ventilation and kitchen extraction cleaning services to help businesses comply with food safety regulations and the Building Safety Act. The company also offers fire damper inspections and compartmentation services, working with clients in sectors such as education, healthcare, retail, and leisure. With additional bases in Birmingham, Liverpool, Preston, Manchester, Leeds, and Middlesbrough, Duct Hygiene has built a reputation for its specialist services over the last two decades.
The acquisition by First Compliance Group will see Duct Hygiene’s 50-strong team remain in place, with an investment programme set to begin over the coming months to enhance services and expand the company’s capacity.
Ben Wood, CEO of First Compliance Group, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, describing it as a natural fit for their business. “Duct Hygiene is a well-respected name in the compliance sector, and their services align perfectly with our existing portfolio. This acquisition supports our vision of offering comprehensive, nationwide compliance and safety solutions to both new and existing clients,” Wood said.
Wood also highlighted the strategic importance of the deal in advancing First Compliance Group’s national ambitions. “We are excited about the opportunities this brings for both businesses, particularly in terms of providing a more robust national service offering. We’re looking forward to taking Duct Hygiene forward and building on their established reputation.”
Phill Brooks, Managing Director of Duct Hygiene, echoed Wood’s sentiments, stating that the acquisition marks a significant milestone as the company approaches its 20th anniversary. “Joining First Compliance Group is an ideal step for Duct Hygiene. Both companies share the same values and commitment to putting the interests of customers first. With this partnership, I am confident that Duct Hygiene will continue to grow and flourish.”
Brooks added that the acquisition will benefit Duct Hygiene’s existing clients, who will now have access to an expanded range of compliance and training services.
The move is part of First Compliance Group’s broader expansion strategy, which includes plans to open a new training academy by the end of 2024. The academy will focus on addressing the growing skills gap in the ventilation and specialist cleaning sectors. The new initiative is expected to provide much-needed training for professionals in the industry, further enhancing the group’s capacity to meet regulatory standards.
The acquisition of Duct Hygiene follows First Compliance Group’s previous investment in Insuraclean, another specialist business in the sector, signalling its ongoing efforts to strengthen its market position.
For more information, visit www.ducthygiene.co.uk.