SDC is a leading healthcare management consultancy, project management and solutions business. SDC specialises in services to health organisations providing strategy development, health planning, capital project advisory services, performance improvement and implementation services. SDC reported a turnover of £1.4 million for its year ended March 2002 and its contribution post acquisition is expected to be earnings enhancing.

The acquisition will create a strong platform for Serco to grow further business in health, building on our existing track record in providing support services to Norfolk and Norwich, Wishaw General and Leicester Royal Infirmary hospitals, and waiting list brokerage through Serco Euromedic. The new business will be known as Serco SDC.

Serco SDC will develop new business opportunities in providing additional service capacity to the NHS and in developing NHS LIFT schemes, whilst, maintaining SDC’s tradition of high quality strategic consultancy advice.

Chris Hyman, Chief Executive, Serco Group plc stated: -

"We see considerable growth opportunities in the healthcare sector and are delighted to welcome the staff of SDC into Serco. This acquisition gives Serco strength and depth in a vital public service sector, adding to the capabilities that the company already has in this market, and the role that it plays.

SDC provides us with an immediate capability in providing strategic advice and consultancy to all layers of the NHS and capability to enter the markets in services that we believe will be provided to the NHS by the independent sector on a sustainable basis, including direct clinical services, performance improvement through the Trust Franchising scheme and future PFI/PPP projects in hospital and primary care assets.”

Ian Savage, Chief Executive, SDC said:

"SDC has been looking for a partner to support achievement of its vision and strategy. In Serco we have found the ideal partner; an organisation that has similar ambitions in healthcare and that can supplement the SDC skill base. The combined resources and capabilities of the two firms will create a major new business for the healthcare market."