Private equity-backed housing maintenance contractor Cardo Group has sealed its sixth takeover in 12 months after snapping up employee-owned decorating specialist Trident Maintenance Services.

The painting and fire coatings specialist employs around 100 staff and operates across England and Scotland.

Last year the firm turned over £18m and more than doubled pre-tax profit to £1.7m, underlining its strong position in the compliance-driven coatings and refurbishment market.

The deal strengthens Cardo’s technical capability in passive fire protection and specialist finishes while deepening its footprint in the north of England and Scotland.

Founded in 2012 by CEO Liam Bevan as LCB Group in South Wales, Cardo has grown rapidly through acquisition into a major housing and public-sector building services provider across the UK and Ireland.

Kenny Robson, Managing Director of Trident Maintenance Services, said: “Joining Cardo Group marks an exciting next chapter for Trident. It gives us the scale, backing and shared ambition to grow sustainably, expand our capabilities across housing, healthcare, education and other key market sectors.

“I’m genuinely excited about what we can achieve together for our clients, our teams, and the communities we serve.”

Liam Bevan, CEO of Cardo Group, said: “Trident expands our national capabilities, particularly in the north of England, and enhances our offering across Scotland while supporting our long-term strategy of investment in skilled local workforces and supply chains.”