Founded in 2015 by current MD Katie Aldred, the Elstan HR team works with clients across a range of sectors, but has developed particular expertise in working within the technology and leisure/retail sectors.

Following this acquisition, for an undisclosed amount, AAB Group’s business unit dedicated to HR and People services (AAB People in Scotland and Think People Consulting Ltd in Ireland) now comprises a team of 60+ HR, Health & Safety and Talent Development specialists working across six locations, delivering an annual turnover in excess of £4.5 million.

Douglas Martin, chief commercial officer at AAB, said: “The acquisition of Elstan HR provides an exciting opportunity for AAB Group to expand the range of HR consultancy services that we can deliver for our clients, particularly integrated HR support for large SMEs and corporates.

“It also serves to further enhance the AAB Group’s presence as a leading provider of HR, health and safety and talent development services across the UK.

“We are delighted to welcome the Elstan team to the group and look forward to working together.”

Louise McCosh, AAB people partner, added: “This is a great strategic fit for the AAB People business unit. Not only are Elstan HR’s culture and values synergistic with the AAB Group, but this move will also provide us with a footprint to grow in London and South-East England across all the AAB People service lines.”

The Elstan HR team have been shortlisted for the Customer Service Award in the annual Ashford Business Awards, while Ms Aldred is herself shortlisted for Businesswoman of the Year. The winners will be announced at the awards gala dinner in Kent on 29 November 2023, the same month that Elstan HR will begin trading as AAB People.

Commenting on the deal, Ms Aldred said: “This deal has come together at a great time for us as we look to accelerate our next stage of growth, whilst enhancing the depth and breadth of the services we offer.

“AAB has a strong relationship-driven approach and we are looking forward to working with our new colleagues in AAB People, and across the wider AAB Group, to deliver even more value for our clients, whilst providing great opportunities for our team.”

Emer Hinphey, CEO of Think People Consulting Ltd, added: “I’m delighted to welcome Elstan HR to the AAB Group, and I am very much looking forward to working with our new colleagues in England as we continue to grow and expand our HR, learning & OD services across the UK and Ireland.”

This latest acquisition makes Elstan HR the ninth business to join the group since securing investment from August Equity in October 2021.