Construction recruitment specialist Fawkes & Reece has accelerated its national growth strategy with the acquisition of Cardiff-based Time 4 Recruitment Solutions, strengthening its footprint across the UK construction market.
The deal brings a well-established regional recruiter into the group and marks another step in Fawkes & Reece’s long-term expansion plans as it approaches its 25th anniversary in 2026.
Strengthening Regional Coverage
Following the acquisition, the business will operate as Fawkes & Reece West, extending the group’s regional office network to nine locations nationwide. Its presence now spans major construction hubs including London, Birmingham, Bristol, Southampton, Brighton, Northampton, Sheffield, Bolton and Cardiff.
The newly formed western division will be led by Grant Lillywhite, who steps into the role of Managing Director, ensuring continuity for existing clients while aligning the operation with the group’s wider strategy.
Aligned Growth Ambitions
Fawkes & Reece has positioned the acquisition as a cultural and operational fit, designed to enhance service delivery for contractors, developers and candidates across the built environment. By broadening its geographic reach, the recruiter aims to support clients with multi-regional project pipelines and address sustained demand for skilled construction professionals.
The expansion also supports the company’s longer-term commercial ambitions, with leadership having previously signalled plans to significantly scale turnover in the coming years through organic growth and targeted acquisitions.
Responding to a Tight Labour Market
The move reflects broader trends within the construction recruitment sector, where firms are seeking scale and regional depth to navigate a competitive labour market. With demand remaining strong across housing, infrastructure and commercial development, recruiters with national coverage and local expertise are increasingly well positioned to support both permanent and contract hiring needs.
For Time 4 Recruitment’s team, the acquisition provides access to a larger platform, expanded resources and new development opportunities within an established national brand.
Looking Ahead
As construction activity continues to evolve amid economic pressures and long-term skills shortages, Fawkes & Reece’s latest expansion reinforces its position as a growing force in UK construction recruitment. With increased regional reach and a clear growth roadmap, the firm is positioning itself to support clients and candidates across the next phase of industry demand.