Black & White Engineering

Building a Global Engineering Consultancy

Founded in 2007, Black & White Engineering is a multi-award-winning global engineering consultancy delivering high-quality mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) design solutions across a range of industries.

With more than 500 employees operating across 23 countries and serving 110 clients worldwide, the business has established itself as a premier engineering partner to top-tier data centre operators. Black & White is recognised for delivering innovative, efficient and cost-effective solutions with sustainability embedded at the core of its offering.

“Black & White is an incredibly dynamic business that has established itself as a true market leader. It has been a pleasure working alongside Mick and his exceptionally talented management team. We have every faith that the partnership with Waterland will lead to an exciting and successful next chapter.”

Dave Gardner, Managing Director, KBS Corporate

Powering the Next Phase of Expansion

The transaction was driven by growth ambitions. Black & White sought a strategic investment partner to support its continued international expansion, enhance its service capabilities and accelerate its trajectory as a global leader in data centre engineering.

Engineering Leadership in a High-Growth Sector

Black & White has built a reputation as a market leader in engineering design for data centres, which is a sector experiencing sustained global growth driven by digital infrastructure demand. Its differentiated approach combines technical excellence, sustainability-led design and a consistent culture embedded across international operations.

The business’ scalable model, global footprint and strong leadership team have enabled it to deliver complex, mission-critical projects for blue-chip clients worldwide.

“Mick Cairns is an impressive entrepreneur who has built an outstanding business. We look forward to supporting Mick and the senior team in this next chapter and will continue to back their philosophy of investing in people and working together with the best talent to create a global leader in engineering for the data centre market.”

Wendy McMillan, Partner, Waterland Private Equity

Delivering a Strategic International Partnership

KBS Corporate, led by Managing Director Dave Gardner, advised Black & White throughout the transaction.

The KBS team positioned the business as a dynamic, high-growth international platform operating in a resilient and expanding sector. A carefully targeted process engaged private equity investors with proven international expansion expertise and a track record of scaling professional services businesses.

Throughout negotiations, KBS focused on securing a partner that aligned culturally and strategically with the leadership team’s long-term vision. Ensuring continuity of management and preserving the business’ unique culture were key priorities, alongside delivering a strong outcome for shareholders.

Capital and Expertise for the Next Phase

The process culminated in a significant investment from Waterland Private Equity, a firm renowned for supporting ambitious international growth strategies.

The transaction provides Black & White with access to capital, acquisition expertise and an international network to accelerate its expansion plans. Founder Mick Cairns remains as CEO, alongside the existing leadership team, ensuring continuity and stability as the business enters its next growth phase.

A Compelling Opportunity in Data Centre Engineering

Waterland was attracted by Black & White’s strong market position within the rapidly expanding data centre sector, its proven leadership team and its scalable international platform.

Waterland’s hands-on approach, acquisition expertise and experience in international expansion made it a natural partner to support the company’s ambition to broaden its geographic footprint and expand its engineering specialisms.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Waterland and leveraging their track record of international growth and acquisition experience. We are looking forward to supercharging the momentum we have built, with Waterland acting as a hands-on partner which supports our vision and ambitions”

Mick Cairns, Founder and CEO, Black & White Engineering