Cleaning specialist Puissance 5 has recently announced the acquisition of Novasol, a family-owned business specialising in industrial cleaning with a strong presence in the healthcare sector. The experts at AURIS Finance, a consultancy specialising in mergers and acquisitions, provide an in-depth analysis of this latest market move.
Following nearly five decades of independence, Novasol has become part of Puissance 5. The family business, headquartered in Saclay, currently generates the majority of its revenue in the healthcare sector, while its customer base is primarily located in the Paris region. Novasol, which has an annual turnover of €20 million, began implementing solutions tailored to the specific requirements of hospitals in 2012. The company’s services include regular maintenance of premises, bio cleaning of hospital wards, collection of activated healthcare waste and linen care (with collection and delivery).
A regional heavyweight looking to diversify
Novasol has formed a partnership with one of the leading companies in the Ile-de-France cleaning market, while Puissance 5 has made its first foray into the healthcare sector. In light of the growing need for enhanced hygiene and safety standards, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, the healthcare market presents a significant opportunity for cleaning companies. Regulatory requirements, increased demand for eco-responsible solutions and changing customer expectations are all driving the industry to engage with recognised companies with proven expertise. Puissance 5 was established in 1995 and has since grown to employ 3,600 individuals and serve over 200 customers in the Paris region, with annual sales reaching €67 million. The group operates in a number of sectors, including tertiary, commercial and industrial, as well as collective housing and local public authorities. Its cross-disciplinary expertise is a key differentiator. The acquisition of Novasol represents a strategic diversification for Puissance 5, providing the company with new expertise in line with its business objectives.
A drive for consolidation
The cleaning sector is currently undergoing significant changes. The acquisition of Novasol by Puissance 5 represents a further step in the ongoing consolidation of the cleaning market. In April 2024, Onet Group reinforced its national presence by finalising the acquisition of ISS France’s cleaning, logistics and facilities management operations. This strategic acquisition enabled Onet to expand its portfolio of services and establish itself as a national leader in the market. In September 2024, Ciel Bleu Group acquired Immobusol Propreté, thereby consolidating its presence in south-east France. In a similar move to that of Puissance 5, Ciel Bleu has diversified its activities by integrating a target with specific expertise, thereby positioning itself in a new market.
Our experts at your service
There are currently 15,000 cleaning companies in France, with an estimated market value of €19 billion. The top 50 companies account for €7.4 billion in sales, representing 41% of the sector’s total turnover. These companies include a significant number of family-run businesses and very small firms. Major groups are seeking new targets to acquire complementary expertise in order to expand their capabilities. Mergers are also a means of extending the geographical reach of large groups.
At AURIS Finance, we have a dedicated expert team specialising in the cleaning and waste management sector. We are there to support you every step of the way, from identifying the target company to integrating it, and including the search for financing.
