Cross-border PwC team supports Bluesky with its sale to Woolpert
Bluesky International has joined US-headquartered geospatial organisation Woolpert. The sale process was supported by the UK and US corporate finance teams of PwC.
Ashby-based Bluesky is the UK’s largest aerial survey firm. The company specialises in aerial imaging, lidar, 3D modelling, vegetation, and renewables mapping, serving as the UK government’s supplier of choice for aerial photography and height data. Headquartered in Leicestershire, Bluesky has over 130 staff across the UK, Ireland, US and India.
Woolpert is a global geospatial network, collecting and processing imagery and lidar data from mountaintops to the seafloor. Headquartered in the US with a growing international footprint, the acquisition of Bluesky enables Woolpert to further expand its industry leadership position in the UK and European market.
In particular, the acquisition boosts the capabilities of Murphy Geospatial, which joined Woolpert in 2024. According to a release from Woolpert, as Murphy Geospatial specialises in mobile and indoor mapping, asset monitoring, subsurface engineering, and 3D digital twin development across Ireland, the UK and into Europe, there is “a tremendous complement between the Murphy Geospatial and Bluesky teams.”
The deal also opens up significant opportunities for Bluesky. A release from the firm stated that Woolpert’s extensive expertise in the geospatial realm, as well as the addition of its architecture and engineering services, “opens up a new realm of possibilities for our clients.”
Rachel Tidmarsh, CEO of Bluesky, commented, “This transaction marks a significant milestone in Bluesky’s journey, and we’re thrilled to be joining forces with Woolpert, whose global reach and complementary capabilities align perfectly with our strategic ambitions.”
Sale process
The sale process was supported by PwC, which staffed a cross-border team comprising UK and US advisors. UK-based members Cara Haffey, Steph Davidson, and Jack Simpson acted as lead financial adviser to the shareholders of Bluesky, flanked by Steve El Osta and David Figueroa from the US corporate finance team.
“PwC provided exceptional support throughout the process – their hands-on approach and attention to detail were instrumental in driving the transaction forward and delivering a great outcome for our shareholders and the business,” noted Tidmarsh.
Haffey added, “We’re proud to have advised Bluesky on this landmark transaction. The deal highlights the increasing appetite for UK-based geospatial and data services businesses and showcases our strong credentials in the aerospace, defence and space sector. It’s been a pleasure working with the Bluesky team and helping them secure a strategic partner to support their continued growth.”
