Industrial Automation Strengthens Its Materials Handling Business
Axel Johnson International's Industrial Automation business unit has acquired two UK companies, Conveyor Units Ltd. and Bridge Bearings Ltd. The deal expands its presence in materials handling and complements its existing industrial businesses. Moreover, the acquisition broadens its portfolio of equipment and components for industrial automation and material transport systems.Conveyor Units Supports Factory Automation and Intralogistics
Conveyor Units designs and manufactures floor-based conveyor systems and related components. Its main customers include system integrators and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The company serves several industries, including manufacturing, warehousing, intralogistics and parcel handling. Its products support material movement across industrial facilities, distribution centers and automated handling operations. Therefore, the acquisition strengthens Industrial Automation's offering for businesses developing and maintaining material handling systems.Bridge Bearings Adds Industrial Bearing Products
Bridge Bearings supplies a broad range of bearings for industrial applications. Its product portfolio complements Conveyor Units' conveyor systems and associated components. Together, the two businesses offer Industrial Automation a wider selection of products for materials handling equipment. In addition, their combined capabilities may create opportunities to serve customers with related mechanical components and conveyor solutions.Two UK Sites Employ 145 People
Conveyor Units and Bridge Bearings employ 145 people across two locations in Stourport-on-Severn and Lye, United Kingdom. Both companies have established histories in the British industrial sector. Their experience and technical knowledge provide a foundation for continued development within Industrial Automation's broader business portfolio.A Combined History Dating Back to 1958
The businesses trace their origins to Edward Toye, who founded Bridge Bearings in 1958 and Conveyor Units in 1963. Ian Bytheway and Robert Hickman later took responsibility for the companies. They continued developing the businesses while maintaining the legacy established by their founder. Over time, both companies built established positions in their respective markets.Industrial Automation Sees Opportunities for Further Growth
Anton Kullh, Managing Director of Industrial Automation, highlighted the companies' reputations, skilled employees and technical expertise. He explained that their products complement the group's existing materials handling businesses. Furthermore, he sees opportunities to develop the companies through closer cooperation within the group.For industrial automation customers, this acquisition brings together conveyor equipment and bearing products under a larger industrial business group. However, the announcement does not specify changes to product lines, distribution arrangements or customer support. Further details on future integration plans remain unconfirmed.Existing Management Will Continue Leading the Businesses
Conveyor Units and Bridge Bearings will retain their existing management structure under Managing Director Liam Naven-Jones. The current leadership team will continue overseeing business operations and future development. Meanwhile, Ian Bytheway and Robert Hickman will support the transition to help maintain continuity.Robert Hickman described the ownership transition as an opportunity to build on the companies' existing progress. He emphasized the importance of finding a long-term owner with industrial experience and a commitment to future growth. The companies now enter their next development phase within Axel Johnson International's Industrial Automation business unit.What the Acquisition Means for Industrial Automation
The acquisition expands Industrial Automation's materials handling portfolio through two established UK suppliers. Conveyor Units contributes floor-based conveyor systems and components, while Bridge Bearings adds bearing products. Together, they strengthen the group's presence in equipment and components used across manufacturing, warehousing and intralogistics.For the wider industrial automation sector, the deal highlights continued investment in complementary industrial technologies and established component suppliers. Although PLC, DCS and other control systems support automated operations, this announcement focuses on materials handling equipment and mechanical components. The companies' continued operation under existing management also indicates an emphasis on business continuity during the transition.
