Despite a recent slowdown in merger and acquisition activity due to the economic challenges faced by architecture, engineering, planning (A/E/P) & environmental consulting firms in recent years, a majority of firms are considering a possible merger or acquisition in the next five years, according to a new study by Natick architecture and construction consulting firm ZweigWhite.

The company’s 2010 Merger & Acquisition Survey of Architecture, Engineering, Planning & Environmental Consulting Firms found three-quarters of firms in the survey said their strategic plans involve a merger and/or acquisition within the next five years.

"Buyers are starting to reemerge and focusing on growth initiatives again," said Steve Gido , principal of ZweigWhite Financial Advisory Services. "And with organic growth activities, such as opening new branch offices or hiring high-level rainmakers still a challenge for many organizations, many leaders feel now is a great time to buy in order to penetrate new markets, geographies, clients, or service lines. However, despite the allure of lower valuations across the industry, prudence and patience continue to dictate their criteria and process."