WEC Group, the UK’s largest fabrication and contract manufacturing company, has expanded its operations by acquiring Laser Profiles Ltd.
Located in Dorset, Laser Profiles is known for its precision laser cutting services. This acquisition is a strategic step for WEC to strengthen its market presence in the South of England.
Acquisition Announcement
WEC Group, the largest fabrication and contract manufacturing company in the UK, has successfully acquired Laser Profiles Ltd. Located near Bournemouth, Dorset, Laser Profiles is known for its precision laser cutting services. This move is a significant step in WEC’s strategy to expand its footprint across the UK.
This acquisition is described as a ‘gateway to the south’ for the Lancashire-headquartered WEC Group. Laser Profiles brings cutting-edge technology that will bolster WEC’s offerings, particularly in various key supply chains in the South of England.
Strategic Benefits
The acquisition of Laser Profiles marks a crucial milestone in WEC Group’s long-term growth strategy. James Pickles, Service Centre Manager at WEC, commented on the importance of this deal, stating, “The addition of Laser Profiles to the WEC Group represents another important milestone in our ongoing expansion plans.” He emphasised that this new location will open doors to new target markets and enhance their service offerings.
The integration of Laser Profiles allows WEC to harness synergies between existing capabilities. This results in improved service delivery and reduced lead times for their clients. It’s a strategic fit that aligns perfectly with WEC’s commitment to excellence.
Capabilities and Expertise
WEC Group’s capabilities are greatly enhanced with this acquisition. They now have an impressive array of equipment and skilled personnel. Their assets include 25 laser cutting machines, 23 press brakes, 3 waterjet cutting machines and high-definition plasma cutting machines. With over 40 CNC Machines and 200 skilled welders, WEC is well-equipped to meet complex manufacturing demands.
Additionally, they boast 13 robotic welding cells and comprehensive in-house powder coating and wet painting capabilities. This extensive range of services positions WEC Group as a leader in the UK manufacturing sector.
Laser Profiles will add its own expertise to this robust setup, particularly in precision laser cutting. This will undoubtedly strengthen WEC’s market position and service offerings.
Financial Performance
In their last financial year ending December 2022, WEC reported pre-tax profits of £5.9m on a turnover of £43.1m. This financial strength underpins their ability to make strategic acquisitions like Laser Profiles.
WEC Group is owned by stakeholders registered in the United States. The company employs 900 staff across 9 manufacturing sites located in Lancashire, Merseyside, Yorkshire, and the West Midlands. These sites span over 600,000 square feet of production space.
Historical Acquisitions
WEC Group has a history of strategic acquisitions, each aimed at expanding their capabilities and market reach. Previous acquisitions include MTL Advanced in Rotherham, HTA Group in Coventry, and 5750 Components in Knowsley.
Each of these acquisitions has contributed significantly to WEC’s growth and market position. They have expanded WEC’s service offerings and geographic footprint, strengthening their presence in the UK manufacturing supply chain.
The acquisition of Laser Profiles follows this trend, providing additional capabilities that will enhance WEC Group’s service offerings and market reach.
Anticipated Growth
James Pickles exuded optimism about future growth opportunities brought by the acquisition. “This acquisition allows us to harness synergies between our capabilities and expertise, enhancing our ability to serve our clients’ needs and further reducing manufacturing lead-times,” he said.
With this new acquisition, WEC is poised to target new markets in the South of England. The enhanced capabilities from Laser Profiles are expected to contribute significantly to WEC’s portfolio.
Conclusion
The strategic acquisition of Laser Profiles Ltd by WEC Group reinforces WEC’s dominant position in the UK manufacturing sector.
With enhanced capabilities and an expanded geographic reach, WEC is set to capitalise on new growth opportunities in the South of England.
The strategic acquisition of Laser Profiles Ltd by WEC Group reinforces WEC’s dominant position in the UK manufacturing sector.
With enhanced capabilities and an expanded geographic reach, WEC is set to capitalise on new growth opportunities in the South of England.