When a company has built its reputation on technical integrity and trust, finding the right growth partner becomes a defining moment. For Thomas Bell Wright (TBW), a leading name in fire testing, certification, and façade testing across the Middle East, the introduction to Phenna Group marked the beginning of a new chapter. What began as an exploratory conversation soon evolved into a strategic partnership grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and a collective vision for sustainable expansion.
Since joining Phenna Group in 2021, TBW has accelerated its transformation — expanding into the UK and Saudi Arabia, enhancing operational efficiency, and achieving record performance, all while staying true to its founding principles of quality, independence, and technical excellence.
About TBW
Thomas Bell-Wright is a multi-accredited independent firm providing Assurance Services for the Building Envelope Industry and the Construction Sector.
With almost three decades of experience, and branches in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UK, they provide a range of TIC (Testing, Inspection and Certification) services for building architectural elements, as well as passive fire protection materials and assemblies.
Services Include:
Façade Consulting and Reviews
Façade Testing
Fire Testing
Product Certification
Fire Stop Inspections
The Journey
What initially attracted you to the idea of joining the Phenna Group?
Our founder, Tom Bell-Wright, and the team had spent decades building a trusted and respected brand across the Middle East and beyond. We had reached a point where new leadership and strategic investment could take the company into its next phase of growth. When we were introduced to the Phenna Group, it immediately felt like a natural fit, aligned in culture, strategy, and ambition. They understood our sector, appreciated what we had built, and shared our vision for scaling sustainably without compromising on integrity.
Can you walk us through how the acquisition discussions started?
The process began in a very engaging, face-to-face manner. After the initial introduction, Paul Barry and Brian Shannon visited our Dubai premises for an in-person meeting, one of their first trips after COVID travel restrictions were eased. That initial meeting was key. It was strictly exploratory, focused solely on alignment. Did our long-term goals align with their investment philosophy? As a new market for Phenna Group, it was natural to explain our commitment to quality and our innovative growth strategies. Once we all felt that click, we officially moved forward to drafting a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and getting the full due diligence process rolling.
What were the key factors that convinced you that this acquisition was the right move for your business?
Our company, Thomas Bell-Wright, was built on technical integrity and a deep commitment to client service and quality assurance. Our concern was that a larger entity might try to homogenize our operations or dilute our brand equity. Phenna Group operates under a decentralized model. Their intent was to invest in successful, entrepreneur-led businesses and let them continue operating autonomously while providing the resources for growth. This reassured the owners, Tom and me, and the management team that our core identity, processes, people, and market reputation would be preserved and strengthened, not dissolved.
Were there any concerns or challenges you had during the acquisition process? How were these addressed?
The main challenge was showing compliance in a different market under different regulations, but with thorough clarification and documentation, we were able to overcome it.
How would you describe the support provided by the Phenna Group during the acquisition process?
Phenna Group had a deep understanding of both technical and commercial dynamics. They quickly understood our data, focused on critical issues, and responded promptly. They saw the bigger picture and didn't waste time on unnecessary explanations, making the process efficient and productive.
How did Phenna Group's values and vision align with your company's goals?
Our foundation is built on technical integrity and being a trusted partner for testing and certification. Phenna Group's vision to create a global network of top-tier specialist testing, inspection, certification, and compliance (TICC) companies resonated perfectly with us. We share a focus on quality and expertise over scale for its own sake. Joining Phenna Group meant becoming part of a network of like-minded experts, collaborating, sharing ideas, and optimizing processes to drive excellence across specialized sectors.
What was the timeline of the acquisition from the first discussion to the final agreement?
The entire process, from the first exploratory discussion to the final agreement, was efficient, taking approximately five months. This timeline was possible due to the clear technical and cultural alignment confirmed in the initial in-person visit.
How did the acquisition impact your employees and internal culture at the time?
Naturally, our team felt a mix of anxiety and excitement at first. It was a big change, after all. The move introduced new disciplines, reporting frameworks, and a level of structure the team wasn't fully accustomed to. However, after collaborating with other companies within Phenna Group's Built Environment division, the team began to feel more empowered, recognizing how the resources, knowledge, and connections of the larger group could help us develop more integrated solutions and deliver even greater value to our clients.
Post-Acquisition Benefits and Changes
What immediate changes did you experience in the business following the acquisition?
The biggest shift was in planning and organization. In a dual-ownership company, many decisions are made in small meetings, and growth often relies on instinct or gut feeling rather than structured analysis or market feedback. Moving to a new structure was eye-opening. After our acquisition in April 2021, we introduced structured targets, monthly performance reviews, and data-driven expansion planning. At first, it felt a bit overwhelming, but we learned to use this reporting as a powerful tool. It keeps us on track, helps us respond quickly to market changes, and transforms reactive decision-making into a proactive, strategic approach, allowing us to plan growth with confidence rather than guesswork.
How has the acquisition by the Phenna Group affected your company's market position or competitiveness?
Being one of the Phenna Group's companies in the Middle East, geographically distant from the main concentration of their operations, meant that direct synergies in our local market were initially limited. However, the acquisition has significantly strengthened our position in other key markets we were targeting, particularly the UK and EU, which have become our second-largest geographic source of fire testing clients. Many of these clients now bring their tests to our Dubai location. Access to Phenna's resources, credibility, and global network has opened doors that would have been difficult to reach on our own, enhancing our competitiveness and supporting our strategic expansion goals.
What specific resources or support from the Phenna Group have been most beneficial to your company?
Phenna's agility and rapid decision-making, supported by its leadership in backing our expansion plans in KSA and the UK and in allocating financial resources, were critical in helping us establish and achieve our targets in these markets.
Have there been any operational improvements since joining the group? Can you share examples?
As one of the first companies to join Phenna Group in 2021, we've seen our operational systems evolve significantly. Reporting across Thomas Bell-Wright's three entities is now coordinated through online CRM portals, providing a clear, structured view of performance. We have also upgraded one of our testing propellers from fuel-based to electric and shared this technology with other companies in the group, fostering collaboration and efficiency across the network.
In what ways has being part of the Phenna Group allowed your business to expand or enter new markets?
Being part of Phenna Group has been instrumental in our expansion. They supported us in establishing a new entity in the UK, where we invested time and resources to become an Approved Body, enabling manufacturers to declare CE marking through our testing services. At the same time, they backed our plans to expand into Saudi Arabia, a neighbouring market with significant potential. I would say our timing was excellent, allowing us to be fully operational just as this market began to take off.
Can you describe any new opportunities for innovation or growth that have arisen from the acquisition?
We've benefited from the sales resources of other group companies operating in the same sector but in different geographies, such as Stroma and BET. This collaboration has opened new horizons and created additional growth opportunities for Thomas Bell-Wright.
How has your company's access to technology, expertise, or training improved since becoming part of the group?
I believe opportunities and collaborations should go both ways. It's about giving as well as receiving. Within the Built Environment companies, we've shared our technology, including the upgraded electric testing propeller, with other group companies, while they have shared insights on integrated reporting systems with us. We've also benefited from excellent training on marketing and enhancing our social media presence. This two-way exchange has opened new avenues for innovation, improved efficiency, and strengthened our ability to deliver value to clients.
Success and Future Outlook
What success stories or milestones has your company achieved since becoming part of the Phenna Group?
Since joining Phenna, Thomas Bell-Wright has achieved several key milestones. We successfully established our UK entity and became an Approved Body, enabling manufacturers to declare CE marking through our testing services. In Saudi Arabia, we launched a fully operational laboratory, positioning ourselves to serve major regional projects just as the market started to take off. Additionally, we completed some of the largest and most technically complex fire and facade testing projects in the region, reinforcing our reputation as a market leader.
How has your company's financial performance been affected by the acquisition?
The markets were still recovering from COVID after the acquisition, and growth was initially slow, but Phenna fully supported our vision for the UK and Saudi Arabia. Today, we are in a much stronger financial position, and this year marks our best performance ever. The acquisition has positively impacted our financial performance by enabling faster, more structured growth. Access to Phenna's resources and guidance allowed us to expand into high-potential markets with confidence, while structured reporting and planning tools improved operational efficiency. Together, these factors have strengthened revenue generation, optimized resource allocation, and enhanced overall profitability, proving that reaching your goals takes time, collaboration, and the right support.
Can you share any client feedback or testimonials about your company's progress since the acquisition?
Clients have been very supportive and enthusiastic about our growth. Many have highlighted the enhanced capabilities we now offer, from faster project turnaround to more comprehensive testing services. Feedback consistently emphasizes our continued commitment to quality and technical integrity, reassuring clients that joining Phenna has strengthened rather than diluted the services they rely on.
What are your plans for the company and how does being part of Phenna Group support these goals?
Looking ahead, we plan to continue expanding our service portfolio and geographic reach, particularly in niche and high-demand markets. Being part of Phenna Group provides the resources, strategic guidance, and global network necessary to scale effectively, while still preserving our entrepreneurial spirit and focus on technical excellence. This combination positions us to lead innovation in the TICC sector and deliver even greater value to our clients.
Looking back, how do you feel about the acquisition decision, and what would you say to other businesses considering joining the Phenna Group?
The decision to join Phenna has been truly transformative. They understood our business and supported our vision, providing the perfect balance of guidance without micro-managing, allowing us to maintain our identity and operational approach while accessing a global network, resources, and expertise. For other businesses considering Phenna, my advice is simple. Choose a partner who truly understands your business and values both your legacy and your growth ambitions. When culture and strategy align, the results can far exceed what is achievable on their own.
Looking back, the acquisition has proven to be more than a business decision. It's been a catalyst for growth, innovation, and strengthened market leadership. With Phenna Group's backing, Thomas Bell Wright continues to build on its legacy, delivering advanced testing and certification services that shape safer, higher-performing buildings worldwide.
For those considering a similar path, our experience offers a clear takeaway. The right partnership is built on shared values, trust, and a genuine respect for what makes each business unique. When culture and vision align, collaboration doesn't just accelerate growth, it amplifies it.
Sandy Dweik
CEO
Sandy Dweik
CEO