UK-based safe lifting, rigging, and chain solutions supplier William Hackett has acquired Forge Lifting Gear, a specialist in manufacturing bolts, shackles, and forgings.
Based in the West Midlands, Forge offers rapid prototype and production capabilities, catering to sectors like energy, construction, mining, agriculture, and utilities.
The acquisition provides William Hackett with expertise in bending, boring, chamfering, drilling, folding, milling, hot forging, tapping, thread cutting, and welding.
It will also add capabilities in surface treatments like galvanising, sherardising, zinc plating, and powder coating.
William Hackett said the acquisition enhances its customer offering.
William Hackett chain products operations director Ian Kelly said: “Forge Lifting Gear is a great addition to our group. It complements our existing operations, bringing us capabilities that truly enhance our customer offering.
“We have worked closely with Forge Lifting Gear for over 20 years and built up a great relationship.
“They were located close to our William Hackett Chain Products facility in Cradley Heath, making them a natural fit with our existing business and a great acquisition to support our growth strategy.”
“Our customers are often up against tight deadlines, requiring non-standard products very quickly. “We can now provide them with a full end-to-end solution, from assisting during the design process to providing a one-off product or small batch run.”
Established in 1892, William Hackett provides a wide range of hoists, chains, and related equipment, with a focus on marine and offshore applications.
William Hackett distributes all its lifting products through its Alnwick facility in North-East England, which has been operational for 35 years.
The UK lifting company has already acquired B&S Chains, a specialist in playground equipment, to enhance its playground chains offering.
Both businesses have relocated to the WHCP Cradley Heath facility, moving their skills and manufacturing base in the West Midlands.
