The Canadian consulting and engineering firm said that the cash-and-stock deal for its Amsterdam-based rival would give the combined firm access to more geographic markets, data, clients and domain expertise. Arcadis said it was reviewing the offer of €51.5 per share, but had rejected an earlier offer of €48.5 per share because it was too low and did not address concerns around issues like “cultural fit” and deal certainty. (The Logic)

Talking point: Arcadis has been working on some major projects in Canada, and WSP seems to have taken note. The Dutch company announced this month that it is lead designer for the Port of Vancouver’s new container terminal, as well as the Bay of Fundy ferry terminal connecting Digby, N.S., and Saint John, N.B. It has also been working on a partnership with the Mississaugas of the Credit Business Corporation. WSP, which made its opening bid on July 1, said that joining forces would help both firms speed their adoption of AI and combine their expertise in high-growth markets like data centres, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. Arcadis shares rose about five per cent in Amsterdam on Friday, while WSP shares were up less than one per cent on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

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