OD Fire Protection and Sharpfibre agree terms on merger deal

Based in Essex, OD Fire Protection has been established for 20 years. Since its inception, the passive fire protection provider has grown organically and increased its client base year-on-year. The accredited and third party certified subcontractor specialises in the installation and maintenance of passive fire protection, thermal insulation and acoustic barrier systems.

The business is wholly committed to providing a good value, high-quality service. This entails the creation of cost-effective and customised solutions to suit clients’ requirements.

Commenting on the merger deal, Paul O’Brien (managing director of OD Fire Protection) informed Fire Safety Matters: “Sharpfibre realises an exciting opportunity for OD Fire Protection to strengthen and expand its offer in terms of passive fire protection services. With a range of high-profile clients, the acquisition of Sharpfibre supports our strategy of leading the market. The combination of Sharpfibre’s expertise and our own drive and specialisms will strengthen us and result in greater efficiencies. We look forward to capitalising on these synergies and leveraging the brand recognition of Sharpfibre to significantly increase our market share.”

Fire protection systems

Basildon-based fire protection contractor Sharpfibre boasts more than 30 years’ experience in providing fire protection systems for some of the UK’s most iconic buildings and construction projects. The company’s teams are highly regarded in the industry for working closely with key supply chain partners to deliver cost-effective, efficient and technically compatible fire protection installations and solutions.

The expanded Sharpfibre will now see it operating from two offices in Essex, one in South Wales and one in France. Services and products on offer include structural steel protection, fire stopping and penetration sealing, acoustic stopping, fire doors, insulation, rainscreen cladding systems, fire board panel systems and fire spray systems for tunnels.

The deal will see Paul O’Brien joining Sharpfibre as its new managing director. Current managing director David Harper explained: “I’m very pleased to be part of the merger between OD Fire Protection and Sharpfibre. While the two companies are geographically close in proximity, they operate in different arenas and will complement each other’s profiles. On a day-to-day basis, the Sharpfibre staff will continue to operate in the professional manner they have shown over the years. The exact same high level of service and commitment will be delivered for our customers.”

Harper went on to state: “On a personal note, both Paul Harvey and I will be remaining with Sharpfibre on a part-time basis for the foreseeable future. The business is in our blood and we want to ensure a smooth transition, as well as be part of Sharpfibre when it thrives in its new form.”

Strengthened position

Barry Beavis, sales director at Sharpfibre, observed: “The amalgamation of OD Fire Protection and Sharpfibre solidifies and strengthens Sharpfibre’s position as the UK’s leading installer of passive fire protection systems, allowing us to continue to provide outstanding customer service and solutions for our existing clients, as well as being able to look forward to growing and developing our client base. I’m excited to welcome the OD Fire Protection team. the union between our two companies will ensure that Sharpfibre is positioned to deliver an even greater level of support for its expanding client base.”

*Further information about Sharpfibre and its range of fire protection products and services can be accessed online at https://www.sharpfibre.com/