Engineering firm set for growth with six-figure investment

A WEST Yorkshire precision engineering company is looking ahead to growth, having secured a six-figure investment deal.

Dewsbury-based Gee Graphite plans to use the facility from Yorkshire Bank to buy new machinery and invest in new technology to boost efficiency in its water jet cutting business.

Founded in 1989, Gee Graphite specialises in the manufacture of graphite gaskets and seals used in the process equipment, aerospace, marine, automotive and energy sectors.

Having been at the forefront of the development of water jet cutting technologies, the firm now also boasts the largest operation in the UK, with ten machines at its 62,000 sq ft Ravensthorpe site.

Managing director Chris Richmond has plans to use the new facilities to add to Gee Graphite’s workforce and pursue further growth by developing their sales in Germany, France and Spain, and also grow in the North American market.

He said: “With more than 25 years’ experience manufacturing precision graphite sealing components, and developing water jet cutting technology, we’ve consistently been at the forefront on new technologies, and have innovated at every step of the way to develop our business.

“As economic conditions improve, the support from Yorkshire bank will allow us to continue this story, as we look to expand into new markets in Europe, the Far East and North America.”

Andrew Davidson, head of Yorkshire Bank’s business and private banking centre in Bradford, added: “Gee Graphite’s continued success is testament to the hard work, determination and innovation Chris has brought to the business for the past twenty-five years.

“As we start to see the first new shoots of recovery, Yorkshire Bank remains committed to supporting West Yorkshire businesses with their growth ambitions.”