RTKL's parent company Arcadis acquires Callison

RTKL’s parent company Arcadis has announced its intention to acquire Callison, a 1,000+-employee architectural and interior design consultancy with offices in the United States, China, Europe, Middle East and Mexico.

The acquisition of Callison, known predominantly for its leadership in retail and mixed-use design, builds on Arcadis’ strong global design and architecture position, currently provided by RTKL. With the addition of Callison, ARCADIS plans to strengthen its global design leadership in retail and mixed-use, and gain the leading position among international architecture firms in China.

"With the addition of Callison, Arcadis has created a true leadership position in high-end design and architecture,” said Neil McArthur, CEO of ARCADIS. "We will have a clear leading position in retail globally, a strong leadership position in mixed use/commercial globally and will have a leading international design and architecture position in China."

RTKL, which provides architectural and design services across the commercial, healthcare and workplace sectors, was acquired by ARCADIS in 2007. A single global network of RTKL, Arcadis, Callison, and other Arcadis operating companies like EC Harris and Langdon & Seah, further expands the offer for RTKL’s clients through greater scale, a wider range of skills and broader market reach.

Lance Josal, FAIA, President and CEO of RTKL, said: "Callison is a well-respected industry peer, and home to great professionals, including several thought leaders in our industry. Callison has a long history in the profession, a strong culture of client service and share the entrepreneurial drive that took our companies to the global stage. Having two industry leaders within Arcadis provides a great opportunity to create something quite unique."

Arcadis will acquire Callison from its primary owner, Blue Point Capital, and from company management and principals. The closing of the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the receipt of approval from the Beijing Municipal Commission of Commerce and is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2014.

"We are excited to be a member of the Arcadis team which has created value for the many other companies that have joined its ranks," said Callison Chairman and CEO John Jastrem. "Our combined global capability will benefit all our employees and clients. We are known for our high quality design and excellent service and with the support of Arcadis we will be able to deliver that quality on an even larger scale."