November 10, 2026

Geo-Design joins Gruner: Specialised expertise meets international strength

With the acquisition of the engineering consultancy Geo-Design, Gruner is expanding its market presence in the UK. For clients of both companies, this step creates an ideal combination of complementary capabilities – while maintaining the trusted local presence and continuity in the management of existing contracts.

With the acquisition of Geo-Design Consulting Engineers Ltd., Gruner is expanding its expertise in engineering geology, hydrogeology, and rock engineering, while simultaneously establishing a presence in the UK market.

Based near Southampton, Geo-Design has built an excellent reputation in geological risk management and in the assessment and design of underground structures. Using geological understanding and state-of-the-art analysis methods, the team develops optimal solutions for the project-specific geological environment. "Gruner gains access to an attractive market with significant growth potential, highly qualified professionals, as well as an established track record and existing client relationships," says Olivier Aebi, CEO of Gruner.

Trusted contacts, expanded possibilities

For Geo-Design's existing Clients and Partners, day-to-day collaboration remains unchanged. Founder Robert MacKean and his experienced team will continue to lead projects with their customary flexibility, agility, and close client relationships. However, they are now backed by the strong support, resources, and interdisciplinary network of Gruner. "We are delighted to have found a partner in Gruner who shares our values and provides us with the resources to serve our clients even more comprehensively," says Robert MacKean.

This partnership creates clear added value: moving forward, clients can be supported from a single source across the entire project development cycle – from initial geological feasibility studies to final implementation. A perfect reflection of the shared promise: Locally anchored. Globally effective.

Gruner looks forward to a successful future together and warmly welcomes the Geo-Design team!

Underground cavern construction at the Wil Cavern project, featuring a multi-boom drilling rig during excavation and rock support works.

Underground cavern construction at the Wil Cavern project, featuring a multi-boom drilling rig during excavation and rock support works.

Geologische Untersuchung einer freigelegten Felswand im Untertagebau zur Beurteilung der Gebirgsverhältnisse und der erforderlichen Sicherungsmassnahmen.

Geologische Untersuchung einer freigelegten Felswand im Untertagebau zur Beurteilung der Gebirgsverhältnisse und der erforderlichen Sicherungsmassnahmen.

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