After 40 years in the construction industry, 25 of which were spent abroad and in Flanders, Philippe Fourneau has acquired deep expertise in the sector. Today, as a partner at BestValue, he explains the specificities of the construction industry in Wallonia and how BestValue has become a key player in business transfers within this field.
Philippe, can you tell us about your background?
After graduating in civil engineering, I started my career at Besix, working on major construction projects in the Middle East. I then completed management training, which led me towards general management roles with a focus on international marketing. That’s how I became CEO of the French subsidiary of a UK-based company specialised in construction-related technical products.
Fifteen years ago, I founded a consulting firm to help Walloon SMEs expand internationally—my very first professional experience in Wallonia! Then, five years ago, I co-founded BestValue. My role? Developing our activity in the construction sector, broadly speaking, from building materials to engineering firms, contractors, distributors, and even real estate agencies.
What makes the construction industry in Wallonia unique from a business transfer perspective?
The numbers speak for themselves. There are around 9,000 construction companies with employees and about 20,000 self-employed workers in Wallonia. According to IWEPS, over 1,500 businesses in the sector will come up for sale within the next five years, mostly because their owners are reaching retirement.
Interestingly, construction is the second most represented sector in terms of business transfers, just after the industrial sector. But this doesn’t mean companies are in trouble—quite the opposite. Many are healthy and profitable, led by highly skilled technicians. These businesses represent real opportunities for buyers, especially as the sector—long considered traditional—is now evolving thanks to technological innovation.
Is the topic of business transfer gaining ground among policymakers?
Absolutely. Public authorities are becoming more aware of the importance of maintaining and passing on existing businesses, not just creating new ones. A successful transfer safeguards jobs, know-how, and the local economic fabric. That’s why the Walloon Region has put in place various support measures to facilitate business transfers. It’s a smart economic strategy, and it’s encouraging to see it gaining traction.
What does BestValue bring to construction business transfers?
First, preparation is key. Even before the actual transfer, BestValue helps business owners assess their company thoroughly. Based on this diagnosis, we often recommend improvements to increase the company’s value. I’m also certified by the Walloon Region in business growth and development, which reinforces our advisory capacity.
Second, our team knows the construction sector inside out. We’ve handled multiple transactions—both on the buyer and seller sides. Thanks to this experience, we can accurately assess market value and support clients with solid benchmarks.
Lastly, I bring a dual perspective—technical and managerial, which helps build trust with business owners. During a transaction, it’s reassuring for them to speak with someone who truly understands their world. This role as a facilitator is a real asset, both for our clients and for BestValue.
In summary, the construction sector in Wallonia presents strong opportunities for business transfers. With its in-depth knowledge and practical expertise, BestValue is ideally positioned to support these transitions and secure long-term value for both sellers and buyers.
