Arcadis has a long history of working with clients – from city leaders and local authorities to investors, asset owners and developers – to improve quality of life by creating spaces where people want to live, work and play, improving mobility and making best use of natural resources. Today, we are one of the largest design, engineering, and consulting organizations in the world.
From our early origins in the Netherlands, Arcadis has grown into a global industry leader through innovation, the expansion of services and a series of strategic acquisitions.
2020-Today
2020 saw the creation of a new global business area structure: Resilience, Places and Mobility. In 2022, Arcadis announced the acquisitions of IBI Group, DPS Group and Giftge Consulting. These strategic moves mark the establishment of a prominent digital position, with the addition of a fourth global business area - Intelligence. Furthermore, this expansion enhances Arcadis' expertise in Architecture and Urbanism, significantly strengthens its presence in North America, and offers complementary client services in high-growth markets such as life sciences, energy transition, and industrial manufacturing.
2010-2019
In 2011, Arcadis acquires EC Harris to build a stronger position in the UK, and growth in Middle East and Asia. A year later, in 2012, Langdon & Seah is acquired to achieve a leading position in cost and project management in Asia. In 2014, the acquisition of Hyder Consulting and Callison brings further strength to engineering and architecture. In 2015, the Arcadis brand is rolled out globally, with all legacy brands being gradually phased out.
2000-2009
In 2007, we announced the decision to voluntarily delist from NASDAQ and continue trading as Arcadis on Euronext. We also acquired RTKL, to bring high-quality architectural design to our clients in US, UK and Asia. In 2009, we acquired Malcolm Pirnie to achieve a leading global position in water.
1990-1999
The nineties mark the start of Arcadis’ European expansion strategy. In 1993, the merger with Geraghty & Miller brings US expansion and grants an initial listing on the NASDAQ index. In 1995, Heidemij became a listed company on the Next 150 index in Amsterdam. In 1997, the Arcadis name and brand as we know it today is introduced.
1950-1979
In 1959, Arcadis began the export of water and infrastructure services to emerging economies. In 1960, Arcadis branched out into urban development. In the early seventies (1974), the Heidemaatschappij is split into two separate entities; the Association (or KNHM foundation; since 2023: Katalys) and Heidemij.
1888
Arcadis was founded as the Nederlandsche Heidemaatschappij (English: Association for Wasteland Redevelopment) a land reclamation business promoting agricultural productivity of Dutch heather lands.
