Sisk buys Northern Ireland contractor Farrans

John Sisk & Son employees pose with an electric JCB telehandler (Photo: JCB)

The deal is subject to regulatory approval, and financial terms have not been disclosed.

Farrans, based in Northern Ireland, employs around 625 people and operates in building and civil engineering across sectors including aviation, water and renewable energy. The company will continue to trade under its own brand, with existing projects unaffected.

Sisk is Ireland’s largest construction and civil engineering business, generating turnover of €2.5bn in 2023, up 43% on the previous year. While most of its revenue is earned in Ireland, it also operates through UK subsidiaries John Sisk & Son, JSS Rail and Fuse Rail.

Sisk chief executive Paul Brown said the acquisition would expand the company’s capabilities in key UK and Irish markets. “This acquisition creates significant opportunity to capitalise on the growing aviation, energy, water and utility sector markets, leveraging the combined capability and highly skilled workforce,” he said.

Farrans managing director Dominic Lavery described the move as a strategic fit. “We’re pleased that Farrans’ people, culture, and brand will be retained, and we look forward to working together to deliver for our clients across the UK and Ireland,” he said.