Universal Group Expands U.S.Footprint with Acquisition of D&H Flagging
Universal Group, a leading traffic management firm, has strategically expanded its presence in the United States with the acquisition of D&H Flagging, a well-established traffic control provider based in Portland, oregon. This move signifies Universal Group’s continued growth strategy following its initial entry into the U.S. market in late 2022.
D&H Flagging: A Legacy of Safety and Service
For over three decades, D&H Flagging has been a cornerstone of traffic safety in the Pacific Northwest. Established in 1988,the company built a reputation for reliable and professional traffic control services across Oregon and southwestern Washington. Initially founded by Dianna Woods alongside her daughter Toni,the business saw the addition of Dianna’s other daughter,Shannon,in 1989. The company successfully transitioned to second-generation leadership in 2008, with Toni and Shannon at the helm, fostering meaningful growth and solidifying its position as a trusted partner for infrastructure projects and event management. According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for traffic control workers is projected to grow 7% from 2022 to 2032, highlighting the importance of companies like D&H Flagging in maintaining safe roadways.
Universal Group: A North American Leader in Traffic Management
Headquartered in Langley, British Columbia, Universal Group stands as the largest traffic management and control services provider in Canada. The company offers a complete suite of solutions, including qualified traffic control personnel, efficient lane closure services, a wide range of traffic control equipment, detailed traffic management planning, and essential road maintenance services.Driven by a commitment to safety and innovation, Universal Group is actively pursuing expansion opportunities throughout Canada and now, increasingly, within key regions of the United States. The company’s growth mirrors a broader trend in infrastructure investment, with the U.S. Department of Transportation reporting a significant increase in funding for highway and bridge projects in recent years.
Legal Expertise Facilitates Strategic Growth
The transaction was expertly guided by the legal team at Snell & wilmer, demonstrating their proficiency in navigating complex mergers and acquisitions. Snell & Wilmer’s M&A practice is recognized for its ability to deliver strategic legal and business counsel across a diverse range of industries. They routinely advise clients involved in intricate corporate transactions, notably those operating within heavily regulated sectors where a nuanced understanding of both business and governmental considerations is crucial. Their client base is broad, encompassing sellers, purchasers, investors, financial institutions, venture capital and private equity firms, and various stakeholders involved in corporate restructuring and financing.