WCA January 2015

Industry news

Steady growth over the years

FOUNDED in 1903, Thompson and Hudson Wire Machinery has been steadily growing to become one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of wire straightening, cutting and forming machines. These produce a range of wire products, from surgical needles to concrete reinforcement bars, for customers throughout the world. Thorite, the UK’s largest independent distributor of pneumatic products and process systems, has been a regular supplier to Thompson and Hudson since 1967, providing unique pneumatic system support plus various Norgren pneumatic equipment, to help maximise the speed, accuracy and efficiency of the wire cutting machines. The two established Yorkshire, UK, companies have mutually benefitted over the years, creating a close synergy. Paul Thompson, Thompson and Hudson’s managing director, is proud of the export successes his machines have achieved and said: “Many people seem to believe that UK manufacturing companies have been unable to compete with products from far eastern companies which are produced using comparatively cheap labour. “However, in the world of wire machinery I’m pleased to say this is definitely not the case. We’ve recently supplied special purpose machines to China which straighten and cut wire to make paint roller handles and to India for producing twist drills, among a long list of similar projects. “I’m certain that the skills and expertise which can only be found in UK organisations which have honed their output over time is the secret to continuing success.” Thompson and Hudson is

Low voltage expansion for ABB ABB has launched a new production facility in Cibitung, Indonesia, to boost its miniature circuit breaker production capacity within the region. Global head of ABB’s low voltage products division Tarak Mehta said: “We see substantial growth opportunities for the low voltage business in Indonesia. The country’s strong economic growth prospects, coupled with a young population, is expected to increase demand in the residential, industrial and demand grew by ten percent last year.” The new facility will employ more than 200 people and has been developed as commercial construction sectors. Electricity

❍ Thompson and Hudson’s machinery produces a range of wire products Price hike Ugitech and Deutsche

located in Brighouse, West Yorkshire, and its machinery is used to produce thousands of items, from fireguards to fish hooks, and dish drainers to dartboards. The company sells to to manufacturers in Germany, America and Iceland as well as India and China, not forgetting the home market which is currently seeing an increase in orders. Thompson and Hudson Wire Machinery – UK Website : www. thompsonandhudson.co.uk Thorite – UK Website : www.thorite.co.uk

Edelstahlwerke, subsidiaries of Schmolz and Bickenbach Group, have announced a price increase on their stainless steel bars, wire rod and drawn wire products. Increases will range up to €50 per tonne from now. Ugitech – Germany Website : www.ugitech.com Deutsche Edelstahlwerke – Germany Website : www.dew-stahl.com

part of the company’s market penetration, innovation,

expansion (PIE) growth strategy.

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Wire & Cable ASIA – January/February 2015