Claims services business Handl Group has acquired organisational health and wellbeing business Robertson Cooper for an undisclosed sum.
Manchester-based Robertson Cooper was founded more than 20 years ago by Professor Ivan Robertson and Professor Sir Cary Cooper, both of whom will remain involved with the business.
It works with UK and international clients to deliver a sustainable approach to mental health and wellbeing in the workplace employing wellbeing specialists, business psychologists and data analysts, and has worked with a range of global blue chip clients, including Aviva, Mace, Nestle and GSK.
Handl Group CEO Graham Pulford (pictured) called the acquisition a “major step forward” in the group’s plans in the wellness sector and said it provided an entry point for new multi-service partnerships with clients.
Commenting on the rationale for the deal, Pulford said: “We have been exploring this opportunity with Robertson Cooper for some time, and I am thrilled they have agreed to become part of Handl Group.
“It is a highly reputable, evidence-led business and a great fit for Handl Group. The team will help spearhead our strategy to diversify into the corporate sector, with a new range of services built around a next generation wellbeing platform.
“Our aim is to utilise the deep experience of founders Professor Ivan Robertson and Professor Sir Cary Cooper, who will continue to be involved in the group, and provide a complete commercial package for employers.”
Pulford added: “Just as bundled services propositions are getting increased traction in insurance claims, a similar focus is emerging in corporate health and wellbeing.
“We have already invested in a number of rehabilitation and healthcare brands, such as Mind Right and EQL, with a heavy focus on digitally enhanced provision.”
Investing in the business
Ben Moss, managing director at Robertson Cooper, said he was excited to be leading Robertson Cooper into its next chapter and that Handl had committed to invest in its businesses.
“With the support of our founders, we’ve evolved with the health and wellbeing market and now the business is ready for a new level of growth.”
He added: “I’m confident this is the right change at the right time and look forward to a bright future for Robertson Cooper and its clients.”
Professor Cary Cooper, founder of Robertson Cooper, added: “Robertson Cooper has been a labour of love for me and my co-founder Ivan Robertson for the last 20 years – how time has flown. During those years great colleagues have done remarkable things for fantastic clients.
“Ivan and I are hugely grateful to all those involved and are proud of the positive impact Robertson Cooper has had on the world of work. With all that in mind, I couldn’t be happier to be handing over the reins to Handl Group.
“I’m confident they understand, respect and will retain what makes Robertson Cooper valued by so many clients, while also bringing new resources and insight to take the business to the next level.
“And it’s not farewell from Ivan and I; we’ll still be involved and are excited to be part of what comes next.”