Sortera enters UK market

O’Donovan’s 100-strong staff is expected to grow following its takeover by Sortera. (Photo: O’Donovan)

Sortera, which has over 500 employees and a turnover of roughly SEK2 billion (US$190 million), collects and recycles construction and engineering waste from sites and facilities across the Nordic region.

Although the value of the deal was not disclosed, the acquisition of family-run O’Donovan is said to be part of a growth strategy that extends beyond the United Kingdom. 

Sebastian Wessman, CEO of Sortera, said: “We are very happy to now join forces with O’Donovan. It is evident that they have carried out exemplary work, to become one of the leading and most prominent construction and demolition recyclers in London and the south east of England.”

Since its founding in 1959, O’Donovan has grown to provide total waste management and recycling services to leading construction and demolition contractors .

With several depots in the city, the company’s client list includes major industry firms such as VolkerFitzpatick, DDS Demolition, MDS Civil Engineering and Murphy Group.

Speaking about the company’s acquisition - which will see O’Donovan’s directors and management team remain in place, Jacqueline O’Donovan, owner and managing director of O’Donovan Waste Disposal, said: ‘’This means exciting new opportunities as well as investments in expansion and continued growth in the English market.”

“It is a hugely exciting time for the business and also for the staff. Together, we will be able to implement our Net Zero pledge, bringing different, alternative greener initiatives to the market quicker which will assist our clients in reaching their ESG (Environmental social and governance) objectives.”