VK architects+engineers celebrates "Buy-out Company of the Year" award at Private Equity Awards
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VK architects+engineers, a multidisciplinary design firm specializing in both architecture and engineering for the construction sector, has been honored as the "Buy-out Company of the Year." Under the leadership of CEO Paul Corbeel, the company has made significant contributions to the industry through important projects such as the new NATO building and various hospitals in Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp.
In a strategic move, VK architects+engineers was recently acquired by Sweco, Europe's largest engineering consultancy. Prior to the acquisition, the company's main investor since 2018 was Down2Earth Capital. With currently over 600 professionals, the company continues to make significant strides in its field.
The awarding jury highlighted several factors for selecting VK architects+engineers for this prestigious recognition. Among them were the successful transition from a family-owned business to an entity backed by private equity, as well as the exemplary collaboration between Down2Earth Capital and the management team of VK architects+engineers. The jury also noted that the company has undergone substantial growth, with a focus on international expansion and digital transformation, as well as its commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. This commitment is not only emphasized within the organization but is also communicated to clients through its 'lifecycle design' approach.
The Importance of Private Equity in the Economic Fabric
Investments in venture capital are increasingly focused on creating a positive societal impact. Such investments help companies grow, creating employment opportunities that benefit the broader community. Currently, venture capitalists actively invest in 1,165 companies, responsible for creating more than 240,000 jobs.
Didier Beauvois, Head of Corporate Banking and member of the executive committee at BNP Paribas Fortis, spoke proudly of the successful sixth edition of the Private Equity Awards. "We are delighted to have spotlighted successful Belgian growth companies and demonstrated how private equity can propel companies forward. This includes not only innovative scale-ups but also companies seeking additional investments to transition to a more sustainable business model," he stated. Beauvois further reported that BNP Paribas Fortis Private Equity currently manages a portfolio worth over €750 million. Approximately half of this is invested through funds, and the other half through direct participations, with the ambition to reach €1 billion by 2026.
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