Acquisition enables aero group to offer ‘one-stop’ engineering portfolio
Manchester-based Aero Services Global Group (ASG) has acquired one of Liverpool’s oldest surface treatment specialists, for an undisclosed sum.
ASG said it is now looking to maximise its new ‘one-stop’ capability with aerospace clients across the world.
The group, which is run by Simon Weston and backed by Amin Amiri of a2e Industries, has purchased King & Fowler in a deal that will safeguard all 59 jobs and signal a new investment drive in processes and plant at its Liverpool factory.
The move will enhance the group’s operating efficiencies, provide access to an extended blue chip client base and make the most of a number of synergies that should increase sales for both parties.
It also brings a new manufacturing discipline to the rapidly expanding North West group, with it now able to access world-class anodising, plating, heat treatment and non-destructive testing.
This means that ASG will be able to deliver a ‘one-stop’ engineering portfolio from tooling and machining to assembly and finishing.
ASG group managing director, Simon Weston, said: “We are delighted to welcome King & Fowler to the ASG family and see this acquisition as a strategic fit, adding more capability to our portfolio.”
He added: “This acquisition strengthens our commitment to our customers, providing end-to-end capabilities for commercial and military aerospace contracts.
“Its reputation in the aerospace sector is well respected, with Nadcap accreditation and over 15 customer approvals already in place. More importantly, it has unrivalled expertise in the surface treatment of critical components and, with renewed investment, we believe we have the opportunity to grow sales by 30% over the next 12 months.”
He said this will involve the creation of a number of jobs and the opportunity to complete work for other domestic and international member companies in ASG.
Mark Huddleston, who remains as director of King & Fowler, said: We have joined a well-managed, growing and ideally positioned group, with a clear vision of providing world class services to customers and deploying a ‘partner of choice’ ethos.
“While we have been approached on a number of occasions by potential buyers, the investment record and market growth of ASG made this the right next step and we look forward to upgrading our facilities whilst supporting the group in their strategic objectives.”
Aero Services Global Group manufactures and sub-assembles detail airframe structural equipment and aero engine components for more than 20 leading OEMs (original equipment manufacturer) and tier one suppliers.
King & Fowler
Founded in 2015 with the aim of helping a global customer base consolidate their supply chains through innovation and efficiencies, it started operations with the acquisition of Phoenix, and now boasts eight subsidiary companies, including Queen’s Award-winning Arrowsmith Engineering, B&H Precision Tooling, Datum, Ludolph, TGM and AMF Precision Engineering.
The group, which employs more than 350 people and boasts annual sales of in excess of £43m, is split into two core divisions focusing on aerospace and tooling, providing a wide range of products.
Amin Amiri, founder and chief executive of a2e Industries, has developed ASG with Simon Weston, completing eight acquisitions over the past six years.
He said: “It is pleasing to witness the birth and continuous strategic development of our business. We will cultivate King & Fowler’s capabilities as a transformative catalyst to enhance shareholder value and profile in the industry.”
Aero Services Global Group was advised by Claire Checketts and Sarah Maddocks of Shoosmiths Solicitors, with the Huddleston family advised by Richard Moorehead of HNH Group.
