Rapid and effective analysis
Our team completed a rapid analysis of vendor-provided documentation in a virtual data-room to identify any near-term, high-risk associated, intermodal freight terminal sites across the UK and Europe - including those in Poland, Germany and the Netherlands. We assessed the potential for material, or business critical environmental concerns associated with current and historical company activities and provided estimated costs and legal implications for aspects such as soil and groundwater remediation. In addition, opportunities around energy efficiency were fed into the capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) models.
Our advice supported Brookfield’s successful bid in the acquisition of Genesee & Wyoming Inc, a ‘take-private’ deal worth $8.4bn.
Enhancing project value through our multidisciplinary team
A core team of specialists undertook an assessment relating to Genesee & Wyoming’s assets and operations, determining their associated environmental risks and opportunities. The assessment was focussed primarily on soil and groundwater contamination and compliance with environmental legislation. However, aspects such as flood risk, energy use, emissions and asbestos were also assessed. A wider team of UK experts – health and safety, rail operations, transport economics and infrastructure advisory – were also brought into the project team, providing a holistic assessment and comprehensive understanding of the target.
Our European inputs were supplemented by additional global contributions, providing comprehensive environmental and technical due diligence services across Genesee & Wyoming’s other assets covering 41 North American states, four Canadian Provinces and three Australian states.
WSP’s involvement in this acquisition demonstrates why our breadth of expertise, collaborative workforce and global footprint sets us apart from our competitors. The fast-paced nature of this project was perfectly suited to the team who are well-versed in high-pressure transactional environments, and recognise the need to identify areas where collaboration with other experts is essential to completion of a successful deal.
