Six months ago, BTIS took a decisive step forward by joining Phenna Group, a move that promised growth, autonomy, and shared ambition. For Managing Director David Blanchard, the decision was underpinned by trust, cultural alignment, and a genuine sense of partnership, all of which were evident from the earliest conversations.
From day one, Phenna Group distinguished itself by being transparent, action-oriented, and respectful of BTIS's established ways of working. The onboarding process was smooth and free from bureaucracy, enabling BTIS to maintain momentum while leveraging the power of a broader network.
Now, at the six-month mark, BTIS is not only holding firm to its core identity but is already seeing tangible benefits from being part of the Phenna community, including a successful bolt-on acquisition, expanded operations, and new confidence to pursue larger, more ambitious contracts. This case study examines how the relationship has evolved and why the future appears brighter than ever.
About BTIS
BTIS is an independent engineering inspection organisation, operating nationwide across the UK. Specialising in statutory inspections, BTIS helps businesses maintain compliance, safeguard their people, and protect critical assets and operations.
Known for its flexible and agile approach to managing risk, BTIS combines independence and impartiality with a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique needs. This client-focused ethos underpins their reputation for delivering a high-quality, responsive customer experience.
BTIS’ core inspection services include:
- Lifting equipment inspections (LOLER)
- Pressure systems inspections (PSSR)
- Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) inspections (COSHH)
- Work equipment inspections (PUWER)
- Power press inspections
- Specialist inspection services
With a strong emphasis on compliance, integrity, and service excellence, BTIS remains a trusted partner for businesses seeking peace of mind in complex and regulated environments.
David Blanchard, Managing Director of BTIS, shares his insights in a six-month check-in interview following the company's acquisition by Phenna Group.
Joining Phenna Group
Reflecting back, what were your first impressions during those early conversations with Phenna Group?
From the outset, Phenna came across as straightforward and people focused. There was a strong sense of trust and respect, which immediately stood out compared to other potential partners.
What was it about Phenna Group that made you feel confident this was the right home for your business?
Phenna shared our values — particularly around integrity, growth, and autonomy. The opportunity to join a wider group while still running our business in our own way gave us the best of both worlds.
How did the process of joining Phenna Group unfold and how did it compare to your expectations?
It was smooth, pragmatic, and quicker than we expected. The team at Phenna at all levels were transparent throughout the whole process, and there was no sense of bureaucracy — just a laser focus on getting things done to an agreed timeline without disrupting the business.
Was there a turning point or key moment when you thought, "Yes, this is going to work"?
Yes, two months after we joined, Phenna backed us to acquire another bolt-on without hesitation. That level of trust so early on confirmed we’d made the right choice.
First Six Months – Impact and Change
You’re now six months in, what have been the biggest positive changes so far?
Access to wider group expertise and financial support to grow, It’s also given us more credibility and confidence to go after bigger opportunities.
Has being part of Phenna helped you secure new clients or win bigger contracts? Can you share any examples?
Having Phenna has a partner has allowed us to target larger organisations that we wouldn’t have necessarily targeted before. We essentially leverage the larger group for opportunities.
Dave, you mentioned “no micromanagement, just trust.” How has that trust shown up in your day-to-day operations?
The trust has been evident from day one. We’ve had full autonomy to run the business as we see fit, without unnecessary interference. As an MD of 15 years, it’s not always easy to answer to anyone — you’re used to leading from the front and making the big decisions. But with Phenna, it’s been surprisingly easy. The relationship is built on trust, respect, and shared ambition. I’ve never felt micromanaged or second-guessed — just supported when needed and left to get on with growing the business. That freedom has made all the difference in keeping our momentum and culture intact.
What have been the most surprising benefits of joining the group?
The volume of cross-business introductions and referrals has been fantastic. We also underestimated the value of being in a wider community of similar leaders — there's real collaboration without politics.
Have you made any strategic moves or investments since joining like hiring, new services, or acquisitions?
Yes, we completed a bolt-on acquisition within two months of joining and have significantly expanded our engineering team. We’ve also invested in upgrading systems and client reporting tools.
How have group synergies played out in practice in terms of collaboration, referrals, or shared expertise?
We’ve had direct referrals from other Phenna businesses and shared resources like compliance, marketing, and tech guidance. It’s added value without any red tape.
In terms of autonomy and identity, how has your company culture been preserved or evolved?
Our culture has remained intact — we still operate with the same leadership, tone, and internal ethos. If anything, the backing has strengthened our team’s belief that we’re on the right path.
Support and Integration
What kind of support have you received from Phenna so far and what has made the biggest difference?
Access to senior leadership when needed and financial flexibility to make commercial decisions. The support is there without being forced upon you.
Are there any specific people, tools, or systems in the group that have helped accelerate your success?
Senior Leadership, legal, finance and M&A teams have been particularly helpful — responsive, pragmatic, and aligned with our pace. Having a reliable support network behind the scenes has freed us to focus on growing.
How would you describe the balance between independence and integration?
Well-judged. We’ve integrated where it makes sense — finance, governance, insurance — but retained full independence operationally and culturally.
Early Success and Future Focus
What are you most proud of achieving in these first six months?
Successfully completing a bolt-on acquisition, expanding the team, and laying the foundation for national growth — all while keeping service levels high and team morale strong.
How has the acquisition impacted your growth trajectory or strategic focus?
It’s accelerated everything.
We’re thinking bigger, acting faster, and have the backing to build a stronger brand.
What are your short-term goals for the next 12–18 months?
- Continue expanding engineer coverage to support client demand
- Launch new products aligned to client demand
- Deliver strong EBITDA growth
- Two additional acquisitions
- Deepen relationships with all clients
- Fully integrate our recent acquisition, Statutory Inspections Limited
If you could offer one piece of advice to another founder thinking about joining Phenna, what would it be?
If you’re looking for a partner that backs you without interfering, this is the one. Be clear on your goals, move quickly, and trust the process — it works.
Finally, if we check back in two years from now, what would success look like for your business within Phenna Group?
We’ll be a recognised leader in our space, with a strong brand, scalable operations, and a track record of growth — delivering value back to the group and opportunities for our people.
A Platform for Sustainable Growth
Six months into life with Phenna Group, BTIS is thriving, culturally strong, commercially ambitious, and strategically active. The partnership has enabled faster decision-making, smarter investments, and a growing sense of national momentum, all without compromising the independence that made BTIS successful in the first place.
The support from Phenna Group has been substantial yet unobtrusive, whether it's access to senior leadership, specialist teams, or shared group resources. Trust remains the cornerstone of the relationship, and it's this trust that has given David and his team the freedom to grow with confidence and clarity.
As BTIS looks ahead to the next 12–18 months, the goals are bold. Further acquisitions, national expansion, innovation, and strong financial returns. For any founder considering joining Phenna Group, David offers this advice: "If you're looking for a partner that backs you without interfering, this is the one."
Six months in, it's clear that joining Phenna Group wasn't just a good move. It was the right one.