rotherham business news

News: Revenues up but Xeros suffers delays with appliance manufacturers

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 08:34:31 +0000

Xeros Technology Group plc, the Rotherham-based creator of technologies that reduce the impact of clothing on the planet, has reported good operational progress across its key divisions in its latest financial results, despite wider appliance industry headwinds extending commercial timelines.

The AIM-listed group is taking greater ownership for the creation of its own washing platform to counteract delays.

Based at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, Xeros recently published its unaudited interim results for the six months ended June 30 2026.

The results show group revenue increased by 67.7% to £0.1m, driven by income recorded across all of the group's technology areas (a first for the business). Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before tax) loss remained static at £1.6m, while administrative expenses decreased slightly to £1.8m due to tight cost management.

Xeros reported net cash of £3.5m in the preiod (£2.8m at the end of August 2026) and remains debt-free following working capital movements in respect of 2025.

Operational highlights included the retail launch of its XF3 external microplastic filter, which is now on sale in Germany via MediaMarkt, with a UK retail launch through Russell Hobbs expected imminently. Further launches are anticipated across major Nordic and US retailers.

In denim finishing, Xeros' partner Yilmak - the world’s largest denim processing machine manufacturer - achieved its goal of initial machine placements in Turkey, Egypt, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, with further orders placed for Sri Lanka and India.

In its Laundry Care division, the firm reported continued progress with a major global washing machine brand under a previously announced breakthrough agreement. Xeros has also initiated an additional go-to-market strategy to launch Xeros-designed washing machine platforms by 2028, which it estimates could represent a £25m revenue opportunity.

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However, the company noted that macro-economic pressures and lower-cost Asian competition facing major European and US appliance manufacturers are extending partner programme timelines beyond its control.

As a result, early revenues previously anticipated in the second half of 2026 are now expected to shift into the first half of 2027.

The announcement discusses a project named "WM2.0" which has begun negotiations ahead of the anticipated appointment of one or two manufacturers in China. The project sees Xeros take greater ownership and responsibility for the creation of a fully functioning washing platform to counteract delays felt whilst working with manufacturers that licence Xeros' technology.

Neil Austin CEO at Xeros, said: "The Group has made good operational progress. Our external microplastic pollution filter (XF3), is now on sale in Germany through MediaMarkt; our denim processing partner, Yilmak, which is the world's largest denim processing machine manufacturer, has facilitated strategic machine placements across key denim manufacturing hubs; the breakthrough agreement for our Xeros laundry care washing machine with one of the world's largest washing machine brands continues to progress well.

"Whilst we have a few months delay in activation, we also have firmer foundations for growth with additional placements in Denim Finishing and distributors for XF3 lined up.

"The Board and I remain excited by the interest levels in, and potential for, Xeros's Technology."

The focus for the management team is distribution.

Speaking in a Q&A for investors, Austin added: "We need product which is ready and is in market, and we need that product to be as distributed as widely with high quality partnerships as we possibly can. If we do that, we give this business the very best opportunity to be able to establish those foundations.

"I'm extremely pleased with the progress that the business has been able to make and equally the things that I can see which we can't talk about just yet, which we know are coming as well. So we never take these things for granted. We are very careful when it comes to the use of the cash that we've got.

"I can say to you that in terms of the work that the business has done, we are establishing those foundations which are critical to be able to get us to the position that, as I said, the management team, the board ... will agree with, not least as well as investors, want us to get to."

Xeros website

Images: Xeros

News: Metalysis achieves commercial specification of space alloy

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 09:57:08 +0000

Metalysis, the Rotherham-based end-to-end manufacturer of solid-state metal and alloy powders, and global leader in materials science, has produced C-103 alloy powder for high-demand markets such as defence, medical, semiconductor and energy.

The company holds the worldwide exploitation rights to the FCC Cambridge process which sees specialist powder metals created in a simple, cost effective process with significant environmental benefits. With a Materials Discovery Centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham it also operates a site at Manvers.

The current C-103 market is estimated at $46m, reaching $200m by 2032 as users search for alternative, secure and consistent supply of this high-performance refractory alloy for use within their high temperature and extreme environment applications.

The benefits of the Metalysis electrolysis process are that in contrast to traditional melting processes for metal alloy powder production, electrolysis uses much lower temperatures and less energy and is a single-stage process rather than multi-stage, such as titanium alloy production. Also, no hazardous chemicals are used during the Metalysis process. This gives substantial energy and yield savings and means that sustainability is built-in across the Metalysis production process.

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The Metalysis process in contrast to melting is also highly adaptable, so bespoke materials can be produced as directed by specific customer demand.

C-103 alloy is one of the most widely used niobium alloys. Niobium’s melting point of 2477 degrees Celsius, excellent corrosion resistance and high strength to weight ratio ensures it is a metal of choice for critical sectors.

C-103 faces supply chain vulnerability primarily because of shortages in Hafnium metal (as opposed to hafnium oxide) production, as competing demand from other hafnium compounds has increased, driven by the rapid expansion of semiconductor chip manufacturing.

Demand is also set to increase also following recent advances in additive manufacturing (AM - 3D printing). The ability to manufacture complex C-103 structures and geometries with minimal material waste addresses one of the historical manufacturing challenges pertaining to C-103, reducing costs and lead times.

Nitesh Shah, CEO of Metalysis, said: "Metalysis is adding C-103 niobium hafnium titanium alloy to its product suite given our core focus on refractory alloys – combined with lightweighting expertise. C-103 was developed in the 1960s but now we are seeing a huge surge in demand because of the renewed race for space – as well as advanced manufacturing sectors such as hypersonics / defence.

"The Metalysis FFC process is able to produce C-103 alloy to the morphology required by AM partners – whilst reducing metal oxides rather than metal means we are not constrained by the availability of hafnium metal. Our engagement with customers in this sector has already been highly encouraging.”

In March Metalysis secured nearly €1m via the European Space Agency (ESA) to scale sustainable titanium production. Titanium is a critical metal for space and aerospace applications, and ESA is actively supporting the development of a more sustainable, economically viable, and secure production route. The two year project has both space and non-space applications, and builds on Metalysis’ proccess.

Metalysis websiteImages: Metalysis

News: McLaren planning to expand its Rotherham manufacturing site

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 08:08:12 +0000

McLaren Automotive is set to create additional operational capacity at its multimillion pound facility on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, if plans are approved.

Opened in 2018 in Rotherham, the McLaren Composites Technology Centre (MCTC) has established itself as a world-leader in lightweight carbon fibre construction for the automotive industry.

The company’s cars are designed and produced in-house through their production facilities, including Rotherham, which produces the carbon fibre monocoque chassis for their road cars. The MCTC is where the McLaren carbon lightweight architecture for the McLaren Artura high-performance hybrid supercar is constructed.

A planning application has now been submitted that would enable McLaren to erect a temporary building within the existing service yard on the AMP.

Plans, drawn up by agents at tor&co explain: "The building is intended as a temporary operational solution for a period of up to five years to enable the continued effective operation of the Composites Technology Centre whilst longer-term proposals for a permanent solution is secured.

"The temporary storage building is therefore required to address an immediate operational need arising from existing activities whilst allowing sufficient time for the design, funding, and delivery of a permanent building solution within the locality as part of the wider / longer term site operations strategy.

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"Whilst the proposal would not directly create additional employment, it would support the continued efficient operation of an existing advanced manufacturing facility within one of the Borough’s key economic growth locations. The development would continue to support the operational resilience and longterm functionality of an established advanced manufacturing business."

The temporary storage area would provide the 75,000 sq ft purpose built unit with an extra 7,265sq ft which would contain storage racking together with a small ancillary office cabin.

Rothbiz reported in March that Harworth, master developer for the AMP, had sold the McLaren unit that it built for the supercar manufacturer. Harworth sold the Rotherham unit as one of five assets totalling 800,000 sq ft for a headline sales value of £47.7m, reflecting a blended net initial yield of 7.6%.

McLaren Automotive website

Images: Google Maps

News: New NED at SBD

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 08:21:42 +0000

Rotherham-based SBD Apparel has appointed a former Olympian to the board as a Non-Executive Director.

SBD Apparel is already the global market leader in strength sports apparel, clothing and accessories worldwide. The company, which counts elite strength and fitness athletes across the world amongst its growing client base, as well as being synonymous with the World’s Strongest Man Competition, successfully opened a new manufacturing hub at Rotherham’s Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in 2022.

The move to new 100,000 sq ft premises was part of a desire to boost exports. The company now sells in markets including Australia, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Germany, Spain, Italy, Norway and Iceland.

Don William brings more than 35 years of experience in professional services and business advisory, having held senior partner roles at both KPMG and BDO. His expertise in strategy, governance, financial oversight and business growth will further strengthen SBD as we continue to expand internationally and invest in the future of the business.

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Simon Clegg CBE, SBD Group Chairman said: "As one of the country’s leading Retail Partners at both BDO and subsequently KPMG, Don brings immense skill sets and experience which will support the further growth of our business at this exciting time. Don’s additional sporting credentials as a former Olympic hockey player provides an empathy with high performance sport which is so central to our brand."

Don Williams, Non-Executive Director at SBD, added: "I am delighted to join the Board of SBD Group. SBD has built a world-class reputation within strength sports through innovation, quality and an unwavering commitment to athletes. The business has exciting opportunities ahead and I look forward to supporting the leadership team as it continues its growth journey."

Don is a former Great Britain and England hockey player with over 120 caps who represented GB in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

SBD Apparel website

Images: RCK

News: Rotherham United's debt with ASD rises to over £9m

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 09:23:00 +0000

In the latest accounts of Rotherham-based manufacturing firm, ASD Lighting PLC, Rotherham United Football Club is listed as a debtor owing £9.4m, up from £5.2m in the previous year.

Both ASD Lighting PLC and Rotherham United have ASD Lighting Holding Limited as their parent company, connected by Tony Stewart, the founder of ASD Lighting and the man who saved the Millers in 2008. The businessman brought them out of administration and has overseen promotions, cup success and a move to a new stadium in town, at the same time as a period of sensible financial management, not something always shared by fellow league clubs.

Based on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, ASD Lighting has a reputation for innovation and quality and provides a range of products for domestic and commercial installations.

For the year ending June 30 2025, turnover was reported as £18m, down from £19.8m in the previous year. Sales to the UK were £15.8m (£17.9m in 2024), the rest of Europe £2.1m (£1.8m in 2024) and the rest of the world £0m (£0.1m in 2024). Included in the £2.1m to Europe were sales of £1.6m to ASD Lighting Europe Ltd set up to distribute and partner with customers in Europe.

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Gross profit is reported at £6.4m, down from £7m. with the manufacturer highlighting that despite rising material, utility and labour costs, the gross profit margin remains strong at 36%, up from 35% in 2024.

Administration costs at £8m increased by 4% from £7.6m last year. The main increases being staff related costs which went up £300k to £6.6m despite employee numbers reducing by three to 159.

It meant that ASD posted an operating loss (before interest and tax) of £1.6m compared to a profit of £0.6m in the previous year. A loss after interest receivable and tax was £849k compared to a £276k profit in 2024.

Rothbiz has previously reported on Rotherham United's 2023/24 losses which highlighted that the club can continue to trade as a going concern "but it must continue to rely upon the support of sponsors, in particular its fellow subsidiary company ASD Lighting PLC to enable it to do so."

The accounts confirm that ASD Lighting continues to provide £1m in sponsorship and advertising to the football club each year.

Documents also show that "included within debtors was £9,467,811 (2024: £5,204,737) due from Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited. The outstanding balance is repayable on demand."

The figure has risen from £929,150 in 2023.

Also included in other debtors is an amount of £12,514,906 due from R U Estates Limited, a company of which Tony Stewart and son Richard are directors. This is thought to have been established when the AESSEAL New York Stadium was constructed.

The debt is split between £600,962 due within one year and £11,913,944 due after more than one year. This loan is unsecured and bore interest at 2% above base rate per annum until January 2021 when it began to bear interest at 1.15% above base rate and is repayable over nine years in instalments.

Rotherham United's accounts for the period are due to be published within the next few months.

ASD Lighting website
RUFC website

Images: ASD

News: AESSEAL presented with King's Award

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:46:00 +0000

Rotherham-based AES Engineering Ltd has been presented with the 16th Queen’s or King’s award won by AES group companies.

The Templeborough-based mechanical seal manufacturer and reliability group serving over 100 countries, has received the King’s Award for Enterprise in the sustainable development category.

Previous Queen’s Awards have been achieved by individual parts of the group have included those for exports and technological achievement but this is the first to be won by the overall holding company.

The group’s core products are manufactured in Rotherham and are used by major industries globally to prevent the leakage of liquids and gases into the environment, thereby preventing environmental damage as well as avoiding a health and safety risk.

HM Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire Dame Hilary Chapman recently presented the Grant of Appointment and a trophy bearing the Emblem to managing director Chris Rea at the company’s headquarters.

She said it was the most prestigious award a business could gain and had been for 50 years, with just 199 granted across the UK last year, and 27 in the sustainable development category – AES Engineering being the only South Yorkshire recipient.

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Dame Hilary said: "Sustainability isn’t built into the strategy here, it is the strategy and it is the golden thread that runs through everything AES Engineering does.

“It is highly competitive and only 20% of all those who apply are successful. This category is very important and gaining control of the climate crisis was recognised as a high priority by our previous Monarch Queen Elizabeth and our present monarch King Charles.

“You must show unquestionable commitment to sustainability and at AES that is certainly the case. This is the 16th award the company has received but it is the first time the overall holding company has won the award, which is remarkable."

To gain the award a company must demonstrate commitment to sustainable development over two years, have built sustainability into the company’s strategy and be able to show proof of positive outcomes.

Dame Hilary said all of this was evident and picked out the new tree walk at Mill Close, the commitment to spending £29m on environmental projects by 2029, achieving Net Zero every year since 2021 and launching Betterworld.Solutions as highlights.

Vice Lord-Lieutenant Jane Marshall read the award citation, and Mr Rea said the process involved in obtaining a King’s Award had always been extremely thorough and now appeared even tougher.

He said: “You don’t get this award for no reason. You must display forceful evidence of what a business has achieved over a period of time. “As a management team and a group of people we are still up for the challenge of being sustainable and being successful.”

On the announcement of the award in May, he said: “A King’s Award is the ultimate establishment to business award and a huge boost to morale and motivation, but this award is particularly special as it encourages AES Engineering Ltd to continue to invest in sustainability.”

The accolade is valid for five years and means the company can fly the King’s Award flag at Mill Close, use the emblem on stationery, advertising and products.

AESSEAL website

Images: AESSEAL

News: Rotherham manufacturer drives export growth with £1.5m government guarantee

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 09:52:00 +0000

Preformed Windings Limited, a leading manufacturer of high-voltage bars and diamond coils, has secured enhanced financial backing to strengthen its position in international markets through a £1.5m trade loan facility from HSBC UK, backed by a guarantee from UK Export Finance (UKEF) – the government’s export credit agency.

The company has over 50 years of experience manufacturing high-voltage bars and coils that are essential for stabilising and enhancing the performance of heavy machinery across multiple sectors, including hydropower, nuclear and power generation. These specialised components extend asset life, improve efficiency and reduce maintenance requirements for equipment that typically operates under extreme electrical stress.

Preformed Windings has operations at Vector 31 at Waleswood in Rotherham. It recently added a further 11,000 sq ft for a 60% increase in manufacturing capacity to meet the growing demand for high-voltage diamond coils.

With over 90% of its business driven by exports, Preformed Windings supplies customers across multiple continents. The trade loan facility, backed by UKEF’s General Export Facility, provides the financial flexibility needed to manage working capital while continuing to invest in growth and technical innovation, enabling the company to confidently handle large international orders and serve its expanding global customer base.

The company now employs more than 120 people – with 10% of staff recruited in the last six months – and expects to add further roles across production, technical, and sales teams as growth continues.

Preformed Windings works closely with Advanced Manufacturing (Sheffield) Limited and the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, offering post-graduate and degree apprenticeship schemes to develop future engineering talent within the region.

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Tim Reid, CEO of UK Export Finance, said: "Preformed Windings’ success shows exactly why we created the General Export Facility - to give UK businesses the flexibility to invest in export growth. Their commitment to technical innovation and training showcases why the UK remains at the forefront of advanced manufacturing.

"By backing companies like Preformed Windings, we’re strengthening the UK’s competitive edge, supporting skilled jobs, and nurturing the engineering talent that underpins our economy.

"Looking ahead, the company is focused on expanding further into markets in North America, Middle East, Japan, and Europe, which present exciting opportunities for Preformed Windings advanced bar and coil technologies and expertise in supporting high-efficiency power generation."

James Stevens, CEO at Preformed Windings Limited, said: "With over 90% of our business driven by exports, the support by UKEF and HSBC UK has been critical in strengthening our position as a global leader in high-voltage bars and diamond coils.

"The General Export Facility has given us the confidence to manage working capital to meet overseas demand efficiently and competitively. As we expand into new markets, we see UKEF as a key partner in our international growth."

Kayley Towle, International Manager at HSBC UK, said: "At HSBC UK, we’re delighted to support innovative businesses like Preformed Windings to achieve their export growth ambitions. Working alongside UKEF, this is a great example of how partnership between banking and government can provide the flexible financing that businesses need to capitalise on international opportunities."

Preformed Windings website

Images: Preformed Windings

News: Xeros sign breakthrough launch agreement with global washing machine brand

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 11:09:00 +0000

Xeros Technology Group plc, the Rotherham-based creator of technologies that reduce the impact of clothing on the planet, has signed an agreement with one of the world's largest branded washing machine manufacturers.

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, Xeros is a Leeds University spin-out that has created a number of technologies, such as the use of polymer beeds in washing and filters to collect microplastics.

The latest deal will result in the mass production of domestic washing machines using Xeros' Laundry Care technology (XDrum and XOrbs) under the manufacturer's brand.

Xeros' "XOrbs" last for many hundreds of washes before needing to be replaced and recycled. The beads gently remove unwanted molecules and contaminants from materials allowing washing machines to work more efficiently while using just a fraction of the water traditionally needed.

The manufacturer, which cannot be named due to commercial sensitivity, is a global leader, and top ten brand, selling around seven million domestic washing machines per year, operating predominantly across North and Latin America.

The agreement will follow a paid-for, time-bound process with defined milestones and deliverables, and is anticipated to complete in around 12-18 months. Post completion, revenue will come from a royalty payment for each Product Certification Mark used, and from the sale of XOrbs.

Xeros anticipates that similar paid for agreements will follow, with three further global washing machine manufacturers currently in technical verification.

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Neil Austin CEO at Xeros, said: "The Agreement to develop a Laundry Care machine with a top ten global brand is a game changer for the Group and on a personal level the key moment I have been working towards since joining the business. We are absolutely thrilled to be working with them and believe this is the strongest evidence yet for the global adoption of Xeros' Care Technology."

The group recently reported a significant improvement in its financial performance, with the latest interim results showing a considerable narrowing of its losses.

The AIM-listed group posted a net loss for the six months ended 30 June 2025, narrowing by nearly 11% compared to the previous reporting period. The loss for the last half-year stood at £1.73m, down from a loss of £1.94m in the same period last year. Adjusted EBITDA loss fell to £1.6m from £2.4m.

Xeros currently has another three global washing machine manufacturers in technical verification but the launch of IFB's 9kg Xeros-enabled washing machine has been delayed.

Highlights from the period include Yilmak securing its first denim manufacturing partnership for its Xeros denim processing machines with a prominent Pakistan-based manufacturer, Ambition Apparel, which produces over nine million pairs of jeans a year.

For XFiltra, which captures up to 99% of all microplastic particles shed from clothing during a domestic laundry cycle, Russell Hobbs plans to distribute Xeros' external filter into UK retailers whilst a Letter of Intent has been signed with Guangdong Welly Electrical Appliance Co. LTD ("Welly") a key supplier to the fast-moving Chinese appliance industry.

Xeros website

Images: Xeros

News: SBD Apparel going from strength to strength

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 08:43:00 +0000

Having bossed the powerlifting arena for a number of years, Rotherham-based SBD Apparel is expanding its global reach further having been appointed as the official supplier of the weightlifting costume by the International Weightlifting Federation.

The deal marks an expansion of the strong partnership between the IWF and SBD, "reflecting a shared commitment to excellence in supporting the global weightlifting community."

SBD Apparel is already the global market leader in strength sports apparel, clothing and accessories worldwide. The company, which counts elite strength and fitness athletes across the world amongst its growing client base, as well as being synonymous with the World’s Strongest Man Competition, successfully opened a new manufacturing hub at Rotherham’s Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in 2022.

The move to new 100,000 sq ft premises was part of a desire to boost exports. The company now sells in markets including Australia, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Germany, Spain, Italy, Norway and Iceland.

Under the new agreement, SBD Apparel will provide officially licensed weightlifting costumes designed to meet the highest standards of performance, quality, and regulatory compliance.

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Last month, members of the British weightlifting squad visited the SBD HQ to be presented with their customised kit ahead of the International Weightlifting Federation World Championships taking place in Førde, Norway,

The event marked the first time that bespoke SBD kit was provided for both the Great Britain and the Refugee Weightlifitng teams.

Manufactured in Rotherham, the SBD weightlifting costume has been developed through extensive research and collaboration with elite athletes, ensuring exceptional fit, durability, and comfort for use in both training and international competition.

Benjamin Banks, CEO of SBD Apparel, said: “We are honoured to be appointed as the Official Supplier of the Weightlifting Costume by the International Weightlifting Federation. This partnership represents a significant milestone for SBD, as we continue to deliver world-class products that support athletes in achieving their best performances. Our collaboration with the IWF underscores our shared values of integrity, innovation, and dedication to the advancement of strength sports globally."

Mohammed Jalood, IWF President, added: “The IWF is delighted to further strengthen its partnership with SBD Apparel, whose reputation for quality and innovation is recognised throughout the sporting world. This appointment will ensure that our athletes have access to the very best apparel, reflecting the professionalism and high standards of our sport."

In 2024, SBD was awarded a King's Award for Enterrpise for outstanding achievements in International Trade.

SBD Apparel website

Images: SBD / British Weightlifting

News: Shell deal for innovative Rotherham firm

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 09:38:00 +0000

Innovative Rotherham firm, Tan Delta Systems, has secured a new contract with Shell, the multinational oil and gas company.

Based at Dinnington, Tan Delta provides equipment monitoring technologies and solutions that use real time oil analysis to enable material reductions in maintenance costs, improve reliability and reduce carbon footprint.

Shell Marine Products Singapore is part of the firm's growing customer base of blue-chip multinationals and equipment operators.

The new order, worth approximately £120,000, relates to systems that are expected to be deployed on a range of vessels to monitor various critical pieces of equipment such as auxiliary engines, propulsion engines and other support systems. It targets deployment on thousands of vessels in the coming years.

Tan Delta real time oil sensor solutions use sensing technology to analyse oil in working equipment in real time at a molecular level, enabling accurate tracking of oil condition to end of life, and detection of unexpected issues such as contamination or other internal and unseen equipment issues which may lead to bigger problems and or failures in the future.

In its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2025, Tan Delta bosses warned that the adoption of its solutions by customers is taking considerably longer than expected resulting in disappointing financial results.

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The report noted that there was 216 distributors, 17 active trials and visible forward sales opportunities worth approximately £64m but with revenue at £0.5m for the six months (down from £0.7m in the same period the previous year), the company posted a loss before tax of £0.8m.

Chris Greenwood, Tan Delta CEO said: "We have been building a long-term relationship with the SHELL for several years to explore how they and their customers can benefit from Tan Delta real time oil condition monitoring technologies and products. As a new disruptive technology and concept, it has taken some time to introduce this to a generally conservative industrial and commercial market, but as we recently advised in our Annual Report, whilst the sales cycle remains long, I expect the growth in user references to help with market confidence. This order, whilst small in the context of the overall commercial marine market segment, is a good example of this."

Other recent deals include Fuchs SE, one of the world's largest lubricant distributors and a distributor agreement with Core Arabia in Saudi Arabia.

Tan Delta website

Images: Shell Marine

News: Rotherham-based Leighton Vans revving up for revenues of £100m

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 08:19:00 +0000

Rotherham-based Leighton Vans has announced plans to grow its turnover from £30m to £100m over the next 18 months having been approved as an official Ford convertor.

From their headquarters at Templeborough, Leighton Vans is renowned for its craftsmanship in converting standard VW transporter vehicles into unique Leighton-branded vans, complete with exclusive external styling packs, wheels, and internal conversions.

The company prides itself on designing and manufacturing elements that set their conversions apart from any other in the market and has recently received official GB Whole Vehicle Type Approval from the Vehicle Certification Agency to fit its LV-RF kit to the new Ford Transit Custom van, 5/6-seat crew van and camper van.

Already the UK’s premier retailer of bespoke VW sports van, the Ford approval puts Leighton Vans in pole position for growth.

The approval supports plans to grow the business from £30m to £100m over the next 18 months. This will include Leighton Vans growing its own nationwide dealer network both in the UK and Europe as well as supplying its LV-RF conversions to the Ford dealer network either as kits or fully built vehicles.

Leighton Vans has forecast to sell 500 Ford Transit Customs fitted with the new LV-RF kit which will take its UK new and used sales in 2026 to over 1,000 vehicles.

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The LV-RF kit comprises uprated suspension, larger wheels and brakes as well as exterior front and rear spoilers which enhance the Custom’s road presence. These external design features form part of Leighton Vans’ contemporary design evolution which it has been developing over the past five years.

The type approval process involved rigorous assessment, including a front-end pedestrian protection crash test in Spain and extensive high-speed brake and suspension testing (both laden and unladen, in wet and dry conditions) to ensure larger wheels and lowered suspension did not compromise stopping distances, stability, or safety.

This achievement is the culmination of more than two years of development and testing, representing not just a milestone for Leighton Vans, but also for the wider aftermarket custom vehicle sector. By meeting the highest level of UK approval, above the more limited National Small Series Type Approval, Leighton Vans reaffirms its position as a leader in van performance styling and design.

To support its European expansion Leighton Vans has also gained TÜV approval in Germany, an internationally recognised certification required for modifications in that market, which included a further crash test and inspection. It will support Leighton Vans ambition to grow sales to several thousand over the coming years on the back of establishing its European dealer network.

Adam Jackson, head of parts sales & product development at Leighton Vans, said: “Securing Ford Type Approval for our LV-RF kit is a huge step forward for Leighton Vans.

“It’s taken two years of hard work, engineering expertise, and global testing to get to this stage. We’ve built our reputation on innovation, quality, and customer trust, and this recognition from Ford, VCA, and TÜV underlines everything we stand for.

“It means customers can buy an upgraded new Transit Custom with full peace of mind, knowing the product has been thoroughly tested and meets the highest standards of safety and compliance."

Leighton Vans moved to Rotherham in 2017, opening a brand new workshop and showroom. In 2022, the company purchased additional trading premises nearby.

Leighton Vans website

Images: Leighton Vans

News: AESSEAL Rotherham factory "a temple of innovation"

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 09:12:00 +0000

AESSEAL’s Factory for the Future in Rotherham has been officially opened by the former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who described the multimillion pound investment as "a temple of innovation."

Mr Sunak said the country could learn from the success of AESSEAL.

AESSEAL is the fourth largest global manufacturer of mechanical seals and equipment and the latest project has expanded its operations at the global headquarters in Templeborough.

Opening in 2023, the project includes the refurbishment and “greening” of existing plant as well as a state-of-the-art, 60,000 sq ft extension that has almost doubled the site capacity. It brings the firm’s total investment in Rotherham to over £61m and it is hoped that the global showcase for sustainable manufacturing will lead to an additional £20m of investment in the Rotherham area over the next five to ten years.

Sunak told more than 200 guests at the Mill Close headquarters ceremony that it was not just about founder and managing director Chris Rea building a “world leading company”, but how he had gone about it.

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The Conservative MP for Richmond and Northallerton said: “He has done it in a way that is consistent with how he is. He is a deeply principled man who is committed to making the world a better place than he found it.

"All of you have been part of this extraordinary story of what makes this company special."

Mr Sunak said its growth was a success story the country could learn from, and added: "It is successful because the company defines reliability. You can trust AESSEAL – signed, sealed and delivered. This is a temple of innovation."

AESSEAL was formed with just five employees in 1979, and now serves more than 100 countries with almost 2,000 staff.

The new building reflects AESSEAL’s commitment to creating quality local jobs and ensuring a sustainable future for both the company and the surrounding community. The building is entirely heated by electricity powered by photovoltaics. This has contributed to AESSEAL as a business achieving net zero carbon.

Chris Rea said the building was called the Factory for the Future, not the Factory of the Future, because it represented something that was always evolving and not static.

He pointed to the unoccupied space in the factory and said: "What upsets me most in the world? Pretty close is not having enough customers, but what really upsets me more is not being able to give great service to the customers we have. We built this so our customers could fill it. We have facilities we could close down and fill tomorrow but that is not our style. We make tasks redundant but we never make people redundant. If you have space and you have great people and great customers, you will fill it."

AESSEAL website

Images: AESSEAL

News: Rotherham tech firm targets US

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 10:16:00 +0000

A Rotherham-based software company has secured its first order in the USA and entered a strategic partnership to target the country's manufacturing sector.

With offices in Dinnington, IntelliAM uses AI models to proactively increase operating efficiency of the existing assets of the company's manufacturing clients.

IntelliAM uses machine learning and AI solutions to tap into billions of manufacturing data points to boost productivity and reduce operating costs for customers which include Muller, Mars, ADM, Weetabix, and Hovis.

An order has recently been received for IntelliAM AI platform services and sensor supplies from a high-quality food manufacturer in the USA for three of its major manufacturing sites.

The order provides for IntelliAM AI to supply software, technology support and sensors on-site which will enable the manufacturer to maximise its manufacturing efficiencies and return on investment. The order covers an initial period of 12 months.

Tom Clayton, CEO of IntelliAM AI, said: "This is an important new customer for IntelliAM and our first in the USA. Our respective teams have been working closely together to develop a bespoke programme of enhanced asset care deploying our AI and machine learning platforms for the three manufacturing sites."

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The company collects vast amounts of data from the client's machines and operational systems which is processed through the IntelliAM platform to provide actionable insights that encompass a broad range of areas, such as productivity, reliability and supply-chain optimisation, as well as energy efficiency and sustainability.

In a bid to accelerate growth in the american market, the firm is also working with US-based hardware innovator, Connection Technology Center (CTC), to co-develop advanced smart sensing solutions for the manufacturing sector.

The collaboration brings together CTC’s industry-leading industrial sensors with IntelliAM’s powerful AI platform, launching dual-branded hardware that integrates directly into IntelliAM’s system.

The joint solution is designed help US manufacturers bridge critical data gaps and provide access to richer real-time insights for asset performance, reliability, and predictive maintenance.

Together, the companies aim to bring smarter, data-driven asset management tools to manufacturers and asset-intensive industries across the USA.

Clayton, added: "This isn’t just a partnership, it’s a powerful alignment of two companies with shared ambition and complementary strengths.

“CTC is renowned for the quality and reliability of its hardware, and we’re excited to pair that with our AI-powered platform to deliver a solution that stands out in the market.

“This partnership represents a critical step forward in delivering our vision. By combining our AI-driven insights platform with dual-branded advanced sensory technology, we’re enabling a new level of data completeness and operational visibility for our customers.

“We’ve worked closely with the CTC team, and this agreement reflects our mutual confidence and shared focus on innovation. We’re proud to be bringing this new solution to the US industrial market at a time when the demand for actionable, real-time data has never been higher.”

Images: IntelliAM

News: Rotherham manufacturer acquired in international deal

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 10:53:00 +0000

Empire Tapes, a British tape manufacturing business supplying customers across the globe with a varied selection of tapes, has been acquired by Ireland's Zeus Group.

As a leading specialist manufacturing and distribution group, Dublin-based Zeus provides a diverse range of sustainable packaging solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses worldwide.

Founded in 1993 and with its base at Manvers in Rotherham, Empire Tapes are manufacturers, rewinders and converters of adhesive tape.

Zeus said that the deal, which is for an undisclosed sum, supports its continued growth trajectory across Europe and further reinforces the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions. Empire Tapes also enhances Zeus’ industrial adhesive capability.

Empire Tapes brings more than 20 years of expertise in high-performance adhesive technologies, serving industrial clients across the UK and globally. With a strong reputation for agility, technical specialism, and UK-based manufacturing, the acquisition bolsters Zeus’ industrial packaging capabilities and expands its specialist offering in technical adhesives such as double-sided, masking, and barrier tapes.

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The deal was announced alongside a deal to acquire Spanish firm, Rio Tinto Plásticos.

Brian O’Sullivan, Founder and Owner of Zeus Group, said: "These acquisitions reflect Zeus’ ambition to deliver world-class, sustainable packaging solutions by combining technical excellence with local market insight. Empire Tapes and Rio Tinto Plásticos are both highly respected operators in their fields. Their addition to the Zeus family brings new capability, enhanced customer value, and an even stronger platform for future growth across Europe.”

Dean Sherriff, Chairman of Empire Tapes, welcomed the opportunity to accelerate the company's growth and technical development under Zeus’ ownership.

Zeus also said that the strategic additions are set to boost annual revenue by €20m, helping to pass the €500m mark this year. THe group has an ambitious goal of reaching €1 billion in annual revenues.

In 2023, Empire Tapes secured £4m from NatWest to support the business to progress in the sports sector. In 2017, the company diversified into the sports tapes space, focusing on the tape used to wrap boxers’ hands and secure their gloves during training and for competitive fights. It is now a world-leading brand, used by champions.

Empire Tapes website

Images: Empire Pro Tape / Facebook

News: Rotherham firms earn King's Award for Enterprise 2025

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 08 May 2025 10:29:00 +0000

Two Rotherham-based companies have been named as recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise, recognising their vital role in growing our economy to improve lives.

For 2025, first time winner, International Energy Products, joins AES Engineering Ltd with the 16th Queen’s or King’s award won by AES group companies.

Based at North Anston, International Energy Products specialises in the production and manufacture of nickel alloys, stainless and low alloy products. Established in 2017 it is part of the International Group of companies which engineer, manufacture, and test high-quality steel products for the energy and defence sectors.

The company has been recognised for international trade. It exports to Europe, the US, Middle East, China and India, and sales reached £7.1m in the year to March 2024. Exports have helped annual sales grow by 122.03% over the last three years.

Emma Parkinson, founder and CEO at International Energy Products, said: "We’re incredibly proud to have achieved the King’s Award for Enterprise. It’s a recognition of our team’s ambition, skill and hard work – and our commitment to keeping Sheffield manufacturing at the forefront of global industry.

"Whilst we’ve already come a long way, this marks the start of an exciting new chapter where we’ll continue to grow, innovate, and champion UK manufacturing on the world stage."

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AES Engineering Ltd, the Templeborough-based mechanical seal manufacturer and reliability group serving over 100 countries, has received the King’s Award for Enterprise in the sustainable development category.

The 16th award won by AES group companies is the first to be won by the overall holding company. Previous Queen’s Awards achieved by individual parts of the group have included those for exports and technological achievement.

The group’s core products are manufactured in Rotherham and are used by major industries globally to prevent the leakage of liquids and gases into the environment, thereby preventing environmental damage as well as avoiding a health and safety risk.

AES’s seal support systems have prevented enormous quantities of water being unnecessarily consumed in industrial processes. A total of 42,000 of these systems have been installed around the world over the past decades, saving an estimated 1.6 trillion litres of water – enough to supply the population of South Yorkshire for over 20 years.

These and other savings by companies using group products translate into a reduced carbon footprint and better environmental record by significant sectors of global industry, far outweighing AES’s own direct and indirect energy use, and the cost to the environment of the group’s supply chain.

The AES Engineering Ltd group achieved Net Zero on all scopes in its global operations in 2021 and to date has committed £21m in environmental investments.

The group’s Net Zero calculations, verified by the leading standards body, BSI, show that its global operations had a net benefit to the environment during 2021-24 equivalent to more than 1.1 million tonnes of CO2e saved. That’s approximately the same as the CO2 absorbed by 15 million trees over the same period.

Chris Rea, group managing director and founder at AES, said: "A King’s Award is the ultimate establishment to business award and a huge boost to morale and motivation, but this award is particularly special as it encourages AES Engineering Ltd to continue to invest in sustainability, not least of which is our commitment to invest £29m by 2029 on environmental projects.

“By recognising that a UK based group can combine leadership on the environment and sustainability with commercial success these awards can only inspire others to play a greater part in combatting climate change."

International Energy Products
AES website

Images: International Energy Products / AESSEAL

News: Government cash could be used to help steel areas like Rotherham

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:48:00 +0000

The Government's Plan for Steel has been welcomed by local MP, John Healey, as it sets out how industrial heartlands like Rotherham could be protected for the long term.

Consultation is underway on the plan that looks at the long-term issues facing the industry like high electricity costs, unfair trading practices, and scrap metal recycling – to protect jobs and living standards in the UK’s industrial heartlands.

Up to £2.5 billion will be put towards supporting the steel industry, as per the manifesto commitment, including via the National Wealth Fund. This could benefit regions across the UK – like Scunthorpe, Rotherham, Redcar, Yorkshire, and Scotland – which have a strong history of steel production. It will be spent on initiatives that will give the industry a long future – such as electric arc furnaces, or other improvements to UK capabilities.

The Plan for Steel will look at ways to identify where there are opportunities to expand UK steelmaking to better support UK manufacturing, construction, infrastructure and growth – and secure UK jobs and livelihoods.

To make the UK competitive globally, the Plan for Steel will examine the electricity costs for steel companies and issues such as procurement and tarrifs.

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Improve our scrap processing facilities so they can best support the steel-making of the future. Liberty Steel's operations in Rotherham recycles and melts scrap steel in an electric arc furnace and the steel produced is used across the aerospace, oil & gas, automotive and motorsport industries.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, said: "The UK steel industry has a long-term future under this Government. We said that during the election, and we are delivering on it now.

"Britain is open for business, and this Government has committed up to £2.5 billion to the future of steel to protect our industrial heartlands, maintain jobs, and drive growth as part of our Plan for Change."

John Healey, MP for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough, said that up to £2.5 billion would be spent on initiatives that will give the industry a long future – such as electric arc furnaces, or other improvements to UK capabilities.

He also highlighted the British Industry Supercharger which will cut electricity costs for steel firms and bring prices more in line with international competitors.

Healey said: "During the election, I said that steel can have a bright future and that I would keep up the fight for UK steelmaking. Under the new government we are delivering on it with up to £2.5 billion of funding.

“The announcement of a Plan for Steel is fantastic news for Rotherham and further afield across South Yorkshire, making clear that we are putting the full weight of government behind the industry to protect our industrial heartlands, maintain jobs and drive local growth.

“I will always champion our proud local history of steelmaking and I will continue to work with the Government to make sure the Plan for Steel delivers what is needed for steel workers and communities across our area.”

Images: John Healey

News: Xeros technology set to be used by well-known electronics brand

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:34:00 +0000

Xeros Technology Group plc, the Rotherham-based creator of technologies that reduce the impact of clothing on the planet, has signed a Letter of Intent with a major electronics distributor for its microfibre product.

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, Xeros is a Leeds University spin-out that has created a number of technologies, such as the use of polymer beeds in washing and filters to collect microplastics.

Xeros has signed with a major electronics distributor for an initial order of the XF3 external microfibre plug and go filter. This will see it placed into several major retail outlets, initially in the UK under a well-known electronics brand, towards the latter part of 2025.

An update to the stock exchange added that "further discussions for orders of XF3 with some of the World's largest electronics brands and distributors are progressing well, with other partnership announcements anticipated in early Q3."

Interest in the Group's fabric care technology is gaining further momentum globally. The group recently entered into a paid-for technical verification process with a leading global washing machine brand. Tech verification is a proof-of-concept process, which precedes a Joint Development Agreement (JDA), and typically takes around six months to complete.

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Tech verification processes are taking place with four of the world's largest washing machine companies as regards the fabric care technology. Of these global brands, two are in final stage evaluations ahead of signing a JDA, which would aim towards a commercial launch during 2026.

Xeros said that "this growing momentum is testament to the potential for the Group's technology to revolutionise washing machines and garment care."

Under an existing licensing agreements. IFB Industries Limited, the largest washing machine manufacturer in India, is expected to launch of a fabric care enabled domestic washing machine range later this year.

Xeros also works in the huge garment finishing sector, where a deal with Yilmak, has been delayed into the next financial year.

Moving to an "IP-rich, capital-light" business model with water saving and filtration technologies with multiple commercial applications, Xeros raised £5.5m to provide working capital and enable to execute its high profile contracts in 2024. The board expects to achieve revenue of approximately £2.5m in the current year, though this does not include the significant upside potential of additional revenue opportunities from the numerous discussions we currently have underway.

Neil Austin, CEO at Xeros, said: "The importance of our discussions with these major global players should not be underestimated. A JDA with any one of these could be potentially transformational for the Group, opening the door for others to follow. The washing machine industry is ripe for innovation and change. Existing washing machines have remained largely the same for 40 years and there is pressure on leading OEMs to innovate to secure future sales and market share, as well as meeting upcoming environmental regulations."

Xeros website

Images: Xeros

News: Pricecheck renew lease on head office and warehouse

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 11:33:00 +0000

International brand wholesaler and distributor Pricecheck has taken a five-year lease renewal for its 113,839 sq ft head office and distribution centre in Rotherham.

The company originally moved into the premises at Beighton Link in 2016 and has since taken further space at Manvers, both in Rotherham. The company finished 2023/24 with a turnover of £151m - growth of 15% on the previous financial year and distributes in excess of 8,000 fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) products to more than 100 countries.

A team from Gordons law firm comprising commercial property partner, Sarah Ratcliffe, and head of property disputes, Paul Joyce, advised Pricecheck on the lease renewal negotiations.

Established in 1978, the company is run by brother and sister duo, Mark Lythe and Debbie Harrison, who took the business over from their parents.

Pricecheck’s vision is to be the first-choice distributor for brand owners and customers across the world and it has ambitious plans to increase turnover to £200m.

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Commenting on the lease renewal, Pricecheck joint managing director, Mark Lythe, said: “This lease renewal was far from straightforward with three parties involved, including a previous tenant from whom we were subletting the premises. The team at Gordons helped us to navigate various issues and bring the matter to a successful conclusion within the required timeframe.”

Pricecheck has delivered ten years of consecutive revenue growth.

Gordons’ Sarah Ratcliffe said: “Pricecheck is a fast growing business with significant ambitions, so it was essential for us to secure a new lease on the facilities to enable the company to further deliver its strategic growth plans.

“We had to work at pace within short time frames to conclude the negotiations with the landlord. We are very pleased with the positive outcome and look forward to seeing Pricecheck continue to expand nationally and internationally.”

Pricecheck website
Gordons website

Images: Pricecheck

News: Rotherham United's £5m debt with ASD

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:28:00 +0000

In the latest accounts of Rotherham-based manufacturing firm, ASD Lighting PLC, Rotherham United Football Club is listed as a debtor owing £5.2m.

Both ASD Lighting PLC and Rotherham United have ASD Lighting Holding Limited as their parent company, connected by Tony Stewart, the founder of ASD Lighting and the man who saved the Millers in 2008. The businessman brought them out of administration and has overseen promotions, cup success and a move to a new stadium in town, at the same time as a period of sensible financial management, not something always shared by fellow league clubs.

Based on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, ASD Lighting has a reputation for innovation and quality and provides a range of products for domestic and commercial installations.

For the year ending June 30 2024, turnover was reported as £19.8m, down from £21.3m in the previous year. Sales to the UK were £17.9m, down from £19.8m in 2023 but in the rest of Europe, sales increased to £1.8m from £1.3m in 2023. Included in the £1.8m to Europe were sales of £1.1m to ASD Lighting Europe Ltd set up to distribute and partner with customers in Europe.

The financial results added: "Gross Profit is £7.0m (2023 £8.1m). Against rising material, utility and labour costs the gross profit margin remains strong at 35% (2023 38%). Administration costs at £7.6m remained the same at last year with increases in staff related costs being reduced by saving in other fixed costs.

"The year resulted in an operating loss (before interest and tax) of £0.6m compared to a profit of £0.5m last year. Profit after interest receivable and tax is £276k (£755k 2023)."

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As reported by Rothbiz in March 2024, ASD Lighting continued to provide £1m in sponsorship and advertising to the football club when the Millers posted a loss before tax of £1.1m for the 12 months to June 30 2023.

The latest accounts from ASD show that the £1m in sponsorship continued in 2024.

Documents also show that: "At 30 June 2024 included within debtors was £5,204,737 (2023: £929,150) due from Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited. The outstanding balance is repayable on demand."

Also Included in other debtors is an amount of £12,961,391 due from R U Estates Limited, a company of which Tony Stewart and son Richard are directors. This is thought to have been established when the AESSEAL New York Stadium was constructed and all parties share banking facilities with Barclays.

The debt is split between £1m due within one year and £11,913,944 due after more than one year. The loan from ASD to R U Estates is unsecured and bore interest at 2% above base rate per annum until January 2021 when it began to bear interest at 1.15% above base rate. It is repayable over nine years in instalments.

Rotherham United's accounts for the period are due to be published within the next few months.

ASD Lighting website

Images: ASD

News: Rotherham export experts set for expansion with £20m Santander support

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:27:00 +0000

Advanced Alloy Services, a Rotherham-based supplier of high purity metals, revert and toll-process for the manufacture of high temperature superalloys, has received a £20m funding package from Santander Corporate and Commercial Banking.

The aim is to grow its business both domestically and internationally, as it pursues its strategy for growth in the UK, US and Asia.

Founded in 1993 the company underwent an MBO in 2019 and now operates from a purpose built 44,000 sq ft facility in Dinnington on the former colliery site supplying high purity pure metals and fully processed and certified superalloy revert to customers all over the world.

The new financing agreement will also allow the business to expand its partnerships with UK universities to research and develop new critical metals recovery processes with material from secondary sources. Financial support from Santander will facilitate these crucial innovation projects and help the UK develop security of supply of critical minerals and metals, essential for key infrastructure projects. Metal recovery projects will also help towards Net Zero targets, by reducing reliance of metals from primary sources and corresponding high carbon emissions from mining and refining processes.

Earlier this year, Advanced Alloy Services was recognised for its outstanding achievements in International Trade with a King’s Award for Enterprise. A presentation recently took place in Dinnington with His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, Dame Hilary Chapman.

The firm has a turnover of £56.7m and employs over 40 people.

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Stephen Hall, Managing Director, Advanced Alloy Services, said: "With our new financing arrangement, Santander has differentiated themselves from other banks. Crucially, they have demonstrated support for the UK metals industry and with it the UK Critical Mineral Strategy, helping security of supply essential for key infrastructure. The onboarding team have been exceptional and facilitated a smooth transition in record time."

Liz Pickering, Relationship Director, Santander Corporate and Commercial, added: “We are delighted to have supported Advanced Alloy Services and delivered a bespoke refinance package which will support the company’s exciting opportunity for UK and international growth. Advanced Alloy Services Ltd is a well-established local business growing in its sector. The remit at the outset from the management team was to provide a flexible funding solution to enable the metal supplier to maximise international growth, which we achieved by working alongside UKEF. This has been collaborative approach, and we look forward to continue working with the Advanced Alloy team.”

The package includes a £10m General Export Finance facility (GEF), £10m Invoice Finance, FX facilities, and transactional banking, which offers the metals business flexibility, tailored to its needs.

Advanced Alloy Services website
Santandar website

Images: Lord Lieutenant of South Yorkshire / x

News: German auto manufacturer to close Rotherham plant

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 09:23:00 +0000

Global automotive and industrial supplier, Schaeffler, has announced proposals to close its factory in Rotherham due to declining global demand for clutches.

Production will instead shift to Hungary and India.

The board of the Schaeffler Group, a German manufacturer of rolling element bearings for automotive, aerospace and industrial uses, has announced structural measures for Europe aimed at securing a long-term increase in the company’s competitiveness.

For the UK, the measures include plans to discontinue the operation at Waleswood, which is in Rotherham.

The site produces clutch systems with most of the production for passenger cars, although some is for tractors, and most of it is exported. An update from Schaeffler explained that: "declining global demand for clutches is leading to production overcapacity."

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The update reads: "The shift towards automatic transmissions in ICE [internal combustion engine] cars and the powertrain electrification trend have resulted in significantly reduced demand for passenger cars with manual transmissions. This development is also leading to considerable overcapacity in Sheffield [Rotherham]. Schaeffler therefore intends to locate its production of passenger car clutches in Szombathely, Hungary.

"In addition, the company’s production operation for tractor single and dual clutches in Sheffield will in future be sited at its plant in Hosur, India, where demand for these products is increasing. This will reduce production and transportation costs and expand Schaeffler’s production capacity in a growing market."

Subject to consultation, Schaeffler is planning to close the Waleswood plant and transfer employees in the unaffected central functions there to its existing office in Birmingham.

Matthias Zink, Schaeffler’s CEO Powertrain & Chassis, said: “These carefully considered measures will align Schaeffler’s clutch production network with market demand. Discontinuing production in Sheffield and consolidating our clutch production operations will safeguard the competitiveness of our global clutch business and deliver benefits to our customers. Having said that, we are mindful of the consequences of these measures and will now do everything we can to work with our employees in Sheffield to develop fair solutions.”

In 1987, LuK GmbH acquired Laycock Engineering Limited and started planning a purpose built factory in South Yorkshire. It opened on Waleswood Road, close to the M1, in 1989.

The Rotherham plant was saved from closure in 2018 when Schaeffler announced restructure plans for the UK influenced by uncertainties over Brexit. At the time Rotherham was the biggest of Schaeffler's UK locations in terms of revenues and employee numbers and plants in Llanelli and Plymouth were earmarked for closure.

Schaeffler website

Images: Google Maps

News: Floorcoverings group acquired

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 08:11:00 +0000

A Rotherham-based designer, producer and supplier of high-quality commercial carpet tiles has been acquired in a management buy out (MBO), backed by Nimbus, the Pan European investor.

Paragon Carpet Tiles is based in Manvers and makes up part of National Floorcoverings Group (NFG).

NFG consists of four market facing divisions Heckmondwike, Paragon, Playrite and Mat.Works and has been under family ownership for over 60 years. In that time NFG has dominated the educational sector with its flagship fibre bonded product Supacord whilst continually developing and introducing new product lines to appeal to wider commercial offices and sports organisations.

The acquisition by Nimbus, which has offices in Munich, Zeist and Leeds, represents the first UK investment out of its new Fund V investment vehicle following the successful exits of two UK manufacturing businesses earlier in the year.

Nimbus have supported the incumbent Managing Director David Rhodes and his Management Team in leading a management buy out. Mr Rhodes commented “This investment marks an exciting new chapter for the group and we are looking forward to working with Nimbus who have an excellent track record in supporting UK manufacturers adapt to ever-changing commercial landscapes”.

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David Keenan, who led the investment for Nimbus, added “NFCG holds a very strong market presence in the UK and we hope to work with David and his team to advance further export opportunities whilst introducing new product ranges to our existing markets”. The investment comes swiftly after the successful exits of Paralloy Ltd and Hawthorn Timber Ltd for Nimbus which delivered market leading returns for investors. Nimbus continues to pursue traditional UK businesses with its hands on approach and capital transforming and future proofing their manufacturing footprints."

Looking ahead, NFG is focused on capitalizing on its manufacturing capabilities and exploring new market segments, including potential expansions into overseas markets where the demand for British-manufactured products remains strong. Through ongoing investments in operational improvements and product development, the group is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and uphold its tradition of delivering high-quality flooring solutions.

Paragon Carpet Tiles website

Images: Paragon Carpet Tiles

News: Holtec selects South Yorkshire for Small Modular Reactor factory

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 10:28:00 +0000

South Yorkshire is set to become the new home of US nuclear energy company, Holtec’s planned new Small Modular Reactor (SMR) factory - a £1.5bn investment that is set to create hundreds of well-paid and highly-skilled jobs.

Earlier this week, the US’ largest nuclear components exporter signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for ‘Cooperation on Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Technology’ with The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) on a visit which took in facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham.

The MoU shows Holtec's desire to service the UK domestic market with R&D, jobs and a fully integrated supply chain. Holtec’s SMR factory targets 70% of materials, components, and services are procured within the UK, and particularly South Yorkshire, meaning signiﬁcant supply chain opportunities.

After a process that involved 13 locations which were shortlisted down to four around the UK, Holtec Britain – who have been working at Sizewell B for over 15 years and in the UK for nearly 30 years – chose South Yorkshire as the location for its new SMR factory to serve the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

Holtec’s decision comes after Rolls-Royce SMR also chose South Yorkshire to become the home of its new multi-million pound facility earlier this year. Rolls-Royce SMR will manufacture and test prototype modules for SMRs in South Yorkshire further strengthening the region’s clean tech cluster.

Oliver Coppard, South Yorkshire’s Mayor, said: “In South Yorkshire, we’re building on hundreds of years of innovation and engineering heritage to create world leading facilities, skills and expertise today; assets that will power the clean energy transition in the UK and beyond. We are right at the cutting edge of the new nuclear, hydrogen and sustainable aviation sectors, and proud to be home to the largest clean tech sector in the UK.

"That’s why Holtec have chosen South Yorkshire as the home of their £1.5bn manufacturing facility, because they recognise we are the new home of the emerging clean energy sector in this country. Their decision to invest in South Yorkshire has the potential to support hundreds of high-paying jobs, while their SMR Learning Academy will help train the next generation of nuclear engineers and experts.

"I promised to deliver a clean energy transformation and this decision is just more evidence of the huge and increasingly rapid progress we’re making.”

Gareth Thomas, Director at Holtec Britain, added: “South Yorkshire overcame stiff competition from other areas of the UK to be our preferred location for our advanced SMR factory.

“Holtec Britain was impressed by the resounding interest in our new SMR factory across the UK and the strong support received by the local authorities during our engagements. However, after a rigorous process, South Yorkshire was finally selected as our preferred location.

"In addition to the technical, supply chain, training, and logistics criteria for the formal evaluation, we were also impressed by the history and pride of the people we met during our visit to South Yorkshire, which demonstrated the workforce really cares about the quality and reputation of their work. For Holtec, that translates to a workforce that can be trained and will remain committed to delivering the high-quality nuclear products that Holtec, and our customers, demand.

"Holtec has been part of the nuclear ecosystem in this country for many years and is absolutely committed to creating high-quality local jobs, supply chain opportunities and partnerships that will help South Yorkshire and the UK grow and prosper. Our new UK factory is central to that commitment. Holtec is working to finalise its factory business plan to support its Final Investment Decision, based on its UK and international order book.

“Holtec’s SMR-300 is a PWR reactor enabling the factory to also produce large naval reactor components to not only support the country’s energy security, but also its national security."

A location within South Yorkshire has yet to be announced. Holtec's website states that it will be a 20 Ha factory that would produce 2-4 reactors per year, valued at £1-2 billion each. Construction will generate around 3,600 jobs, and manufacturing will sustain up to 400 jobs annually.

Holtec Britain website
AMRC wesite

Images: Holtec / AMRC

News: Martek Marine in £12m deal

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 11:11:00 +0000

Innovative Rotherham company, Martek Marine, has undergone a £12m management buyout (MBO).

Based at Manvers, Martek Marine is a leading international distributor of premium mission and life-critical safety, monitoring and medical equipment to the maritime industry.

The company was acquired by historic marine business, James Fisher and Sons plc, in a deal worth up to £10m in 2019. Now with the backing of £8m from private equity investment manager, Foresight Group, the new ownership structure is expected to unlock growth.

Founded in 2000, Martek has supplied more than 30,000 pieces of equipment to major ship operators based around the world. Products include a range of portable and fixed gas detection systems, defibrillators and water testing solutions. Martek is an expert at interpreting the complex matrix of maritime regulations. Twice a winner of the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise and a holder of the ISO 9001 international quality benchmark, Martek has a strong market reputation and a loyal customer base. The Company provides guidance on health and safety requirements and delivers frictionless global fulfillment.

Martek launched with three employees and £6,000 in start up capital in the smallest unit in the RiDO-run Century Business Centre. In the year ended 31 December 2023, Martek had 60 staff in the UK and Singapore and generated revenue of £11.6m and profit before tax of £1.4m.

Foresight, which is one of the most active investors into growing companies across the UK and Ireland, will be supporting CEO Karen Bedford and the management team at Martek to achieve its ambitions as a standalone business.

With a strong track record of supporting business growth, Foresight will help Martek capture opportunities and fulfil its potential. Experienced business leader Nick Alexander has been appointed as the Company’s new Chair.

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Nick Mettyear, Investment Director at Foresight Group, said: “Martek Marine demonstrates all the qualities we look for when investing in a business. The Company has a dynamic management team, sells excellent products and has a deep understanding of the complex regulatory environment in the sector. This enables Martek to deliver a market-leading service to its customers.

“We are pleased to be supporting Karen and the team who are driven, focused and have unrivalled knowledge of the sector. We look forward to working with the team to unlock the growth opportunities.”

Karen Bedford, Managing Director of Martek Marine, added: “In Foresight we have the perfect partner who shares our values and vision for the Company. Martek Marine sells innovative products, which offer sustainable solutions for ship safety, performance and crew welfare. We are excited to return to the agility of independent ownership and secure the backing of Foresight.

“We look forward to working with our new Chair, Nick Alexander, who has an excellent reputation and will play a pivotal role in the next phase of our journey. We now have a formidable team in place to achieve our growth aspirations.”

New Chair, Nick Alexander, added: "Martek Marine has pioneering solutions, a global client base, excellent regulatory understanding and a highly energised management team. The market provides considerable growth potential. I’m excited to work with Foresight again, taking on the role of Chair and working with the team to help realise their ambitions.”

James Fisher & Sons said that the disposal was part of its strategy to simplify its business portfolio. The total consideration comprises an initial payment of £10.6 m and an unconditional deferred element, of £1.5m.

Martek Marine website

Images: Martek Marine

News: Pricecheck reports strongest financial year

noreply@blogger.com (Tom Austen) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:25:00 +0000

Pricecheck, an international wholesaler and distributor of fast-moving consumer goods, has reported its strongest financial year to date.

The company, which has its main warehouse facility at Beighton Link and further space at Manvers, both in Rotherham, smashed through its ambitious target of £100m turnover by 2020 and has now broken three financial records, achieving its best month, quarter and year ever recorded - all in the same week.

Trusted by the world's biggest brands, Pricecheck offers more than 6,000 branded products to customers in the UK and to more than 80 countries globally.

After a year of challenges and opportunities, Pricecheck finished 2023/24 with a turnover of £151m - growth of 15% on the previous financial year.

Sales for the final quarter reached £44m, which was 22% higher than the same period last year.

April saw the biggest month ever with revenue of £17.2m – a figure that once represented Pricecheck's annual turnover just 16 years ago, when joint managing directors and brother and sister duo, Mark Lythe and Debbie Harrison, took over the reins of the business from their parents.

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A spokesperson for Pricecheck said: "This is our 10th consecutive year of growth, and is one that has been driven by our expanding services. Our core offering of delivered wholesale remains the biggest contributor to turnover but the launch of new supplier partnerships, an increase in digital sales and developments within brand distribution continue to push our business forward.

"In the past 10 years, we’ve diversified from a delivered wholesaler across toiletries and household into a multi-category, multi-channel brand distributor. And there are plenty of new categories and markets to explore.

"To hit growth targets consistently for a decade is no easy task, but the Pricecheck team love a challenge! With a focus on improving efficiencies, innovation and people development – we’re excited to see what we can achieve in the year ahead."

Pricecheck's vision is to be the first-choice distribution partner for brand owners and customers across the world. It aims to continue to grow with ambitious plans to increase turnover to £200m.

Pricecheck website

Images: Pricecheck