Belgian contractor Besix has acquired a 40% stake in the Belgian modular construction start-up BuildUp, formerly known as BeSteel, though Besix’s subsidiary Vanhout.
Founded in 2016 by current chief executive Hélène de Troostembergh and employing 90 people, BuildUp offers digital design of custom buildings, along with their automated prefabrication in the company’s factory and assembly on site.
“BuildUp designs and builds tailor-made structures, offering clients and architects extensive freedom that breaks with traditional prefabrication,” said Ronny Eijckmans, Vanhout managing director. “This has a positive impact on costs, operational efficiency and planning compliance.”
He said offering the service to Vanhout’s clients would support BuildUp’s growth.
A figure for the acquisition was not given.
Besix said the acquisition would boost the company’s sustainability credentials because BuildUp optimises design to reduce material quantities while searching for locally produced, sustainable and certified materials.
“The construction sector is a major source of CO2 emissions in the world. At Besix Group, we are therefore convinced that our sector is also at the heart of the solution. The acquisition of a stake in BuildUp is part of our ongoing efforts to make construction more sustainable to which modular construction contributes,” said Pierre Sironval, Besix deputy chief executive.
