Drees & Sommer Partners with VVA to Expand U.S. Presence
Drees & Sommer, a global consulting company specializing in real estate, infrastructure, and industrial markets, has announced its merger with U.S.-based VVA Project & Cost Managers. This strategic merger marks Drees & Sommer’s entry into the U.S. market, combining both companies’ strengths to deliver enhanced consultancy, implementation services, and local market expertise. The collaboration will offer clients a broader service portfolio, merging Drees & Sommer’s global reach with VVA’s in-depth industry knowledge and long-standing client relationships in the U.S.
Steffen Szeidl, Chief Executive Officer and Partner of Drees & Sommer, expressed his excitement about the merger: “We are thrilled about our merger with VVA, a recognized leader in project and cost management in the U.S. This partnership brings together two strong companies with shared values and philosophies. Together, we will enhance our market position, unlock growth opportunities, and deliver even better solutions to our global customers. This merger marks a pivotal step in our long-term growth strategy.”
The merger aims to expand Drees & Sommer’s service offerings while maintaining a local focus for its clients. The two companies will now have the capacity to serve a broader range of sectors, from real estate to industry, across the U.S. and globally. “Joining the Drees & Sommer family marks a new chapter of growth for VVA,” said Lorenzo Vascotto, P.E., Founding Partner of VVA. “Our shared values and expertise open exciting opportunities to better serve our clients with enhanced resources and international capabilities, while preserving the personal touch that distinguishes us.”
Drees & Sommer has built a reputation for providing sustainable, innovative, and cost-effective solutions tailored to each client’s needs. With over 6,500 projects worldwide, Drees & Sommer’s interdisciplinary teams operate from 63 locations globally, offering services in Europe, the Middle East, China, and the APAC region. The firm has supported numerous industrial projects, including production facilities for major automotive brands like BMW and Lamborghini, as well as life sciences companies such as Bayer and Roche.
VVA Project & Cost Managers is renowned for its comprehensive range of project management and cost consulting services across the U.S. Its expertise spans all stages of project delivery, including initial planning, cost estimating, procurement, construction administration, and cost control. VVA has managed high-profile projects such as the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Capital Improvement Initiative and significant office and laboratory fit-outs for companies like Schrödinger in Massachusetts and the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York City.
Philipp Späth, Partner at Drees & Sommer, emphasized the new opportunities the merger will provide: “This partnership will combine our strengths to expand our global and local reach, enabling us to offer a broader range of services and enter new markets.”
The merger follows Drees & Sommer’s previous success with its 2022 acquisition of AA Projects in the UK, highlighting the firm’s strategy of expanding its global footprint through strategic partnerships. Kenneth Wood, Partner at Drees & Sommer, noted, “Our experience with the AA Projects merger has shown the immense potential such partnerships can unlock. This collaboration with VVA is another step in our strategy to become a more international company. We are confident it will drive innovation and deliver value for our customers across all markets.”
VVA’s leaders also expressed optimism about the merger. “By joining forces with Drees & Sommer, we are not only expanding our global presence but also strengthening our capabilities in serving our clients,” said Marc D. Chiapperino, P.E., Partner at VVA. “This partnership will enable us to drive innovation, enhance our service offerings, and deliver tailored solutions across the real estate, infrastructure, and industrial sectors.”
Chris Petryshin, Partner at VVA, emphasized the values that both companies share. “This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to integrity, innovation, and long-term success. Combining our strengths with Drees & Sommer will not only advance our capabilities but foster a culture of collaboration and trust. We look forward to creating lasting value for our clients, communities, and employees, while staying true to our core values.”
The merger of Drees & Sommer and VVA Project & Cost Managers is a significant move that will allow both companies to offer more comprehensive and innovative services to clients in the U.S. and around the world. By combining their expertise, the companies aim to provide greater value to customers across various industries, including real estate, infrastructure, and industrial markets, while maintaining their commitment to sustainability and personalized service. The merger is poised to drive growth, enhance the service portfolio, and strengthen the global presence of both companies.
