Construction and property development company Rapley Wilkinson has its eye on a greater share of Western Australia's booming regional housing market following its acquisition of transportable homes manufacturer Blue Ridge this week.
The deal comes just eight months after Blue Ridge founder Alan MacKenzie bought back the Kewdale-based business from listed home insulation and air-conditioning company Cool or Cosy.
Rapley Wilkinson managing director Alan Thomas said the acquisition was a sensible move for his company which had 30 years experience providing permanent workforce housing for the minerals and energy industries in the Pilbara and Great Southern regions.
"We see many opportunities beyond the resources sector and will aggressively position Blue Ridge into being a provider of choice for a range of industries," he said.
Mr MacKenzie established Blue Ridge in May 2005, following his departure from a senior role with the transportable accommodation industry's biggest player, Fleetwood.
Blue Ridge has since built a considerable client base including Fortescue Metals, Precious Metals Australia, Coates Hire and Aspen Parks.
Mr Mackenzie has previously told WA Business News that Blue Ridge generated nearly $4 million in sales in its first nine months of business and expected to post at least $12 million in sales in 2006-07.
Rapley Wilkinson is planning to move Blue Ridge and its 50 staff to larger premises in Welshpool.
Mr MacKenzie has been contracted to remain with the business.
