Robotic innovation sparks growth at water industry supplier

A SUPPLIER of specialist testing and construction equipment to the water industry has expanded, fuelled by the commercial success of its technology led robotics and pressure testing divisions.

The expansion of the specialist divisions is the first phase of an ambitious growth strategy at Leeds-based Ant Hire that will increase turnover from £4m to £10m in the next five years and create a number of job opportunities.

The new head office close to its existing base in Stourton represented a capital investment of more than £350,000 and the space will enable the business to expand its core teams to support growth.

The new site will also be home to Ant Hire’s research and development division that will focus on developing new products and processes.

Ant Hire Solutions provides pressure testing solutions and specialist robotic inspection systems to large contractors and water companies across the country including Yorkshire Water, Thames Water, Kier, Lumsden & Carroll and JN Bentley.   

Ant Hire is unique in the industry in having its own research and development team based in Leeds which has led to a number of design patents and inventions. These include developing the ‘Ten Minute Test’ – a water pressure testing system which has reduced the time required to check for leaks, reducing water company reconnection times, and developing bespoke robotic camera systems now used by the nuclear industry.

Adrian Thompson, Ant Hire managing partner, said: “Ant Hire has always been a well-known name in the water supply industry but we’ve recently seen a huge increase in new business enquiries, particularly in our robotics and pressure testing divisions which has meant we needed to grow to keep pace with demand.

“At Ant Hire we aim to provide our customers involved in drainage and clean water networks with an excellent service and the new space and additions to the team will enable us to offer a one-stop shop for products, advice and technical support to get the job done and to make things simpler for customers.”

As part of the recent growth, Ant Hire has strengthened its senior team with the appointment of director Antony Scott.

With more than 10 years working in senior roles within the drainage industry, Mr Scott will lead all sales activity for the business and will oversee the launch of new prototype equipment in both the pressure testing and robotics divisions.

He said: “I am very pleased to be joining Ant Hire at such an exciting time for the business as we move into new larger premises and expand and develop our range of products and services. What attracted me to Ant Hire was the high level of engineering knowledge and expertise within the business, the very high levels of customer satisfaction and the sheer potential for growth in the coming years.”