Sovex out to deliver success Stateside

WIRRAL manufacturer Sovex is launching a new operation in the United States to target its booming multi-billion dollar e-commerce and parcel handling markets.

The firm has appointed Lonnie Watkins to lead the new US operation from Denver, Colorado. Mr Watkins will head Sovex Incorporated targeting North America and Canada.

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The Prenton-based materials handling specialist was listed number 82 in the 2014 Virgin Sunday Times Fast Track Top 100.

It manufactures more than 30 varieties of vehicle loaders and transport conveyor systems – used to move packaged goods in, out and around warehouses.

Sovex founder and chairman David Lindfield said the company had driven turnover to more than £24m since setting up in 2002.

However, he believes the US retail e-commerce market – estimated to be worth more than £228bn and rapidly expanding – holds the key to further turbo-charged growth.

He said. “Lonnie led the American operation of competitor Caljan for close to a decade. He brings first class product knowledge and unparalleled experience of the US and Canadian conveyor system markets.

“Essentially, we are looking to replicate our existing business model in the United States.

“This involves the design, manufacture, supply, installation and maintenance of vehicle loaders and transport conveyor systems. The sheer land-mass in the US however means we will be taking on the market in different ways.

“We will initially ship-out products and partner with local manufacturers on the ground to deliver installation and maintenance services. Lonnie will also be building a team around him including technical support and operations managers, with a view of launching a manufacturing facility in the future.

“The US division will be largely targeting the post and parcel, just as we currently do across the UK, Europe and Asia Pacific Rim.

“The scale of this market in the US is colossal with big players such as FedEx to UPS right down to traditional independent retail businesses. The e-commerce sector is anticipated to be worth around £500bn by 2018.”

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