Tamworth-based tooling supplier Mercian Cutting Tools has been acquired by a group looking to up its UK manufacturing capacity.
M.A. Ford Europe hopes to enter new market sectors by integrating Mercian’s custom tool production capabilities into the business, which is headquartered in Derby.
All Mercian staff are being retained and their skills have been described as an ‘important element’ in the future of both companies.
Mercian director Allan Brown said: “Clearly, we’re delighted to have concluded the deal with M.A. Ford, especially with their excellent track record of investment in manufacturing facilities and staff skills development.
“Over the past 55 years, Mercian has developed a strong reputation for quality and service, which we’re confident will continue to increase following the joining with M.A. Ford.”
Founded in 1970, Mercian built its business on precision hole making for major automotive manufacturers, and tier suppliers, later expanding into aerospace, medical and power generation.
Continued investment in machine tools enabled production of brazed carbide, solid carbide and indexable tooling.
Alongside its drills, reamers and milling tools, much of the company’s production is focussed on manufacturing a diverse range of custom tooling that demands complex multi-function profiles, including step drills, hydraulic porting and specialised routers, a key factor in its appeal to M.A. Ford.
David Ward, managing director of M.A. Ford Europe said: “There are a number of synergies between the two businesses, which indicated Mercian would be a good fit with us, such as their focus on precision and customer services, alongside the scope of tooling they manufacture and the highly skilled workforce.
“We were actively seeking an opportunity to increase our UK manufacturing capabilities and Mercian was recommended to us, as they had a good reputation, and the directors were looking to exit the business while securing the future for their team.”
