Schlam founder Ryan Schlam has confirmed the 100% sale of Western Australia-based CruServices (Schlam Cru) and subsidiary The Pilbara Clean Machines (TPCM) – the group’s field maintenance and labour services arm – to FMS Group, a leading Australian provider of integrated maintenance solutions.
The acquisition, he said, is a significant step forward in FMS Group’s vision to deliver an integrated, people-first approach to mining as well as construction, renewables and maritime services across the country.
It also reinforces the group’s commitment to growth through cultural alignment, operational excellence and delivering long-term value to its clients and workforce, he added.
Schlam Cru, founded in WA, noted that its strong emphasis on culture, safety and team development aligns seamlessly with FMS Group’s own values and operating philosophy.
Founder Schlam said the transaction represents the natural next step in Cru’s evolution and a strong cultural fit between two organisations that share a deep commitment to people, performance and purpose.
“Schlam Cru has always been about people – the skilled, dedicated teams who keep heavy equipment running safely and efficiently in some of the toughest working environments in the world,” he said.
“The sale of our largest business in September 2025 meant that our group had now split, what remained was a powerful maintenance services business in Schlam Cru – one that deserved its own path for growth. In seeking the right partner for Cru, it became clear that FMS Group shared our values.
The previous business sale transaction included the “Schlam” trademark, which means over the near term, Schlam Cru will operate under a trademark license whilst transitioning to the FMS brand.
Director, Strategy and Business Development of FMS Group Scott McDermott commented that Schlam Cru was a natural fit for the organisation.
“Not just in terms of the services they provide but the way they provide them,” he said. “Their people-first approach and deep respect for culture, safety and innovation make them an ideal partner as we continue to expand across Australia.”
The integration of Schlam Cru into the FMS Group portfolio will expand the group’s capabilities in maintenance and labour services. It also adds valuable depth to FMS’s existing services, such as its SLS (Safety Lift Solutions) jacking division and turnkey project management, with a broader, more agile workforce creating added value for existing clients while expanding opportunities across key sectors.
FMS Group Director and Group Chief Operating Officer Jason Holt said the acquisition would further elevate the group’s capability in delivering complete project solutions: “This strengthens our offering to existing clients and opens the door to new partnerships where clients are looking for a reliable, end-to-end service provider with a proven national workforce.”
Source: fms-group.com.au