US firm buys Bradford switchgear manufacturer

Texas-based Powell Industries has bought Bradford-based Switchgear and Instrumentation in a deal with former parent company, Yorkshire’s NG Bailey Organisation.

Powell will gain improved market share and opportunities from this, especially in Europe and the Middle East. The new parent company has pledged continued support and investment for the Bradford site.

For over 40 years, S&I has provided products and electrical and advanced system design for offshore and other industries, including pharmaceutical, mining, utilities and building services. Annual turnover tops £30m and the company employs over 300 at its Bradford facility, which includes NG Bailey Manufacturing.

Powell Industries is a Nasdaq-quoted company with annual sales of $225m. It specialises in electrical equipment for heavy-specification users in process industries.

Steve Ward, who joined S&I as operations director a year ago, will take over as managing director. Ward said of the purchase: “This is a very good strategic fit, with both companies operating in similar markets and with complementary product ranges and services. Combining our efforts will strengthen our future market drive, particularly as our new parent company has an impressive track record in both research and development and capital investment.”