Ipsum steps into control and automation with latest acquisition

Specialist engineering services provider, Ipsum Group, has today announced its acquisition of network integration, control and automation specialists Core Control Solutions Ltd

The announcement marks a big step forward in Ipsum’s growth plans, with the acquisition bringing an additional specialist capability and team of experts to the business. Integration, control and automation systems play a critical role in the successful operation of the UK’s major infrastructure including the power, water and transport sectors. Core Controls has broad multi-sector experience with particular experience in installing and maintaining the control systems that ensure the safe and efficient operation of renewable energy projects, tunnels, and airports.

Both Ipsum and Core Controls will also see the benefits in joining forces by combining their skills, experience and capabilities to offer their extensive client portfolio an even greater range of joined up services. 

Andrew Cowan, CEO at Ipsum, said: “Our latest acquisition marks another key moment in the Ipsum growth story. It also reinforces our commitment to driving resilient Power and Water infrastructure for communities and businesses across the UK. By uniting Ipsum’s existing specialist engineering capabilities with Core Controls, we’re strengthening our ability to deliver end-to-end solutions for our clients more seamlessly and efficiently, whilst also allowing us to deploy our existing skills into additional infrastructure sectors.” 

“I’m excited to welcome the whole Core Controls team to Ipsum and look forward to what we can achieve together.”

Mark Brown, Director at Core Control Ltd, said: “Joining forces with Ipsum marks an exciting new chapter for Core Controls. We are proud of what we’ve built over the years and are thrilled to become part of a team that shares our values of innovation, quality, and service excellence. This partnership strengthens our ability to deliver even greater value to our clients and opens up new opportunities for growth and collaboration across the Power and Water sectors. 

“We’re delighted to be part of the Ipsum journey and look forward to working together to build a stronger, more integrated future”

Ipsum is a leading provider of engineering services in the Power, Water, Infrastructure and Telecoms sectors. It works in partnership with customers across regulated and non-regulated environments to optimise asset performance, supporting the security and resilience of critical networks. 

Core Controls is at the forefront of designing, integrating, and automating complex energy and infrastructure systems that are essential to delivering the UK’s Net Zero ambitions. Operating across critical environments, from tunnels and highways to community energy networks, their engineers provide highly resilient and flexible solutions.  

The company engineers large-scale battery-based power storage systems to stabilise the National Grid and enable renewables to deliver dependable power. It develops cloud-based, scalable energy management systems for National Highways infrastructure, supporting smart motorways, roadside assets, construction sites, and depots, seamlessly integrating with existing control systems. Through projects like the Tesla Community Energy Scheme, Core Controls delivers sustainable heating and power generation directly to local communities. 

Beyond technology, it provides end-to-end support from initial system design to long-term maintenance across tunnels, civil structures, and live transport corridors, backed by robust, safety-critical engineering expertise. 

Ipsum utilises a data-driven approach and technologically enhanced methodologies such as no-dig and trenchless technologies to provide a quicker, greener, and more cost-efficient delivery of engineering, maintenance, and repair services. Ipsum also provides electrical, mechanical, health & safety training and assessments to the workforce in the Power sector via its in-house training service. 

Core Controls Solutions Ltd were supported by Roy Farmer, Sophie Rogers, Ollie Cooper and Sarah White at Dains Accountants, alongside Rob Hughes and Andrew Shipley at M&S Solicitors.  

Ipsum were advised by Squire Patton Boggs, led by Paul Mann and Vicky Jew, and Grant Thornton, led by Neil Robinson.