NAPIT, a leading certification body in the UK, embarked on a transformative journey by becoming part of Phenna Group.
Discussions with Phenna began in January 2021, and after an initial pause, the deal was completed in April 2022. The decision to join Phenna was driven by a strong cultural alignment, shared values, and the benefits of being part of a larger, well-supported group while retaining operational independence. As part of this transition, Mike Andrews, Founder of NAPIT, has taken on a new role as Divisional Managing Director for Phenna Group’s Compliance and Certification Division, further strengthening the collaboration between NAPIT and the wider group.
About NAPIT
NAPIT is a leading Government approved and United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accredited membership scheme operator in the building services and fabric sector. There are more than 20,000+ NAPIT registered installers in the electrical, heating, plumbing, ventilation, microgeneration and building fabric trades across the UK domestic, commercial and industrial markets.
NAPIT maintains a friendly, common-sense approach to competence, focusing on raising standards and safety within the building services sector. Though they have grown significantly since the organisation was founded, Trade Association values remain at the heart of each NAPIT division and shape how they work with tradespeople today.
The Decision to Join Phenna Group
Phenna Group stood out as the right partner due to the NAPIT team's strong affinity with Paul Barry, Founder and Executive Chairman of Phenna Group. Additionally, the presence of Elmhurst Energy within the Phenna portfolio reassured NAPIT that this was the right move for them.
The acquisition allowed NAPIT to continue independent operational autonomy while benefiting from the support and backing of a larger group.
Post-Acquisition Growth and Benefits
Since becoming part of Phenna Group, NAPIT has flourished, growing its workforce to 150 people and achieving an impressive 30% growth since the acquisition.
Several key improvements have taken place, including:
- Enhanced finance and reporting structures.
- Operational refinements, including an updated employee handbook and additional HR support.
- Access to group-wide legal and financial services.
- Improved processes and collaboration opportunities with other businesses in the Phenna Group.
One of the most valued aspects of joining Phenna Group has been the access to expertise within the leadership team. Being part of the group has provided a valuable support system, offering guidance and resources that help manage the ups and downs of business leadership. NAPIT continues to operate autonomously but now benefits from collaboration with other organisations within the group, learning best practices and scaling up more efficiently.
Looking to the Future
NAPIT continues to thrive under Phenna Group, embracing new opportunities and leveraging the benefits of being part of a larger organisation. With a commitment to maintaining operational independence while tapping into group-wide expertise and resources, NAPIT is well-positioned for continued success.
As Mike looks ahead, he is excited about the future of the Compliance and Certification Division and the prospect of welcoming new companies into the Phenna Group. With Phenna's ongoing growth, the future looks bright for both NAPIT and the wider group.
Compliance and Certification Division
The Compliance and Certifications Division provides TICC expertise that covers people, process, and products.
In the UK and Ireland, this division currently includes ASM Group, Corporate Access, DM Safety and Health Services, ECAS, Elmhurst Energy, First Scottish, IASME, NAPIT and Safety Services.
In Australia and America, the division includes Austest Laboratories, EMC Technologies and PKI Solutions.
Mike Andrews' New Role within Phenna Group
Following the acquisition of NAPIT, Mike Andrews has transitioned into a new Group role, serving as the Divisional Managing Director for Phenna Group's Compliance and Certification Division, which includes NAPIT. In this role, Mike continues to work closely with the NAPIT team while supporting an additional nine operating companies (OpCos) within the division. He plays a key role in helping businesses grow, attending monthly board meetings, and ensuring no surprises when challenges arise without micro-managing the teams.
Mike commented on his new role, saying, “The acquisition of NAPIT by Phenna Group has given me an exciting personal opportunity to lead the Compliance and Certification Division. It has allowed me to not only continue supporting NAPIT but also work alongside other businesses within the division and wider group, helping them grow and develop. The experience has been incredibly rewarding, and I am excited about what the future holds for this division.”
With Mike moving into his Group, Frank Bertie stepped into the role of Managing Director at NAPIT. Having been with NAPIT from the beginning, Frank has a deep understanding of the organisation and an unrivalled knowledge of the electrical industry. His long-standing relationships with NAPIT members, staff, and customers positioned him perfectly to lead the company into its next phase of growth. Under Frank’s leadership, NAPIT remains committed to delivering exceptional customer service, maintaining high service delivery standards, and supporting its members as the organisation continues to expand.
Mike Andrews
Divisional MD, Compliance & Certification
Since joining Phenna Group, NAPIT has experienced significant growth and success, benefiting from enhanced operational support while maintaining its independence.
The organisation has strengthened its workforce, improved key business functions, and gained access to invaluable expertise within the wider group. Following the acquisition, Mike Andrews has transitioned into a new role as Divisional Managing Director for Phenna Group’s Compliance and Certification Division. This move has provided him with an exciting personal opportunity to support NAPIT and other businesses within the division, helping them grow and develop. Looking ahead, NAPIT is well-equipped to seize new opportunities, continue its expansion, and contribute to the ongoing success of Phenna Group.