Bowman International acquires distributor John Handley Bearings

Commenting on the acquisition, Paul Mitchell, Managing Director of Bowman International, says: "John Handley is a well-respected and established family-run business, which offers a range of high-quality linear bearings, split bearings and rod ends. These products complement our existing portfolio and together we have identified many positive synergies between our two companies - including a customer-centred approach to innovation and a longstanding commitment to service and quality."

Lucie Tait-Harris, Commercial Director for John Handley Bearings, adds: "The time is right for our business to seek the strength and financial backing of a larger company and we feel reassured by Bowman's commitment to retaining the John Handley Bearings identity. Our technical partners and customers are supportive of the acquisition and we are confident that together we can enjoy further growth of our respective businesses."

Over the coming months, John Handley bearings will benefit from a new website, advertising and reliable levels of stock availability for its expansive customer base, whilst Bowman will benefit from a Midlands-based stock holding of its plain bearing portfolio, such as the innovative BowMet, Oilite, Bowman Oilless and wrapped bearing ranges.

With 50 years of industry heritage, John Handley Bearings will benefit from a period of brand modernisation as it becomes John Handley Bearings, a division, of Bowman International Ltd.

Improved customer service

Moving forwards, Bowman envisages larger premises for its new division to accommodate improvements in logistical capacity and supply chain management - meaning quicker, more reactive product supply throughout much of the UK.

Speaking in support of the acquisition, Darren Perry, Regional Sales Manager for Thomson Industries, one of John Handley's technical partners, says: "Thomson Industries is delighted to hear that the future of John Handley has been secured thanks to this acquisition. Even at this early stage in the transition, Bowman has already demonstrated its commitment to maintaining and growing the close-working relationship between Thomson and John Handley Bearings.

"John Handley is a key part of our distribution network and we are confident that with Bowman's backing, our mutual customers will benefit from Handley's future stability, improved stock levels and more responsive delivery capabilities."

David Burns European Sales and Marketing Manager of Cooper bearings, adds: "John Handley is a longstanding and highly valued technical and sales partner of Cooper bearings and will continue to count on our support given the renewed impetus provided by Bowman."

For more information about Bowman International, visit www.bowman.co.uk and to read about John Handley Bearings go to www.johnhandleybearings.com.