Industrial Automation Strengthens Its Position in Material Handling Through the Acquisition of Conveyor Units

The business group Industrial Automation within Axel Johnson International has acquired Conveyor Units Ltd. and Bridge Bearings Ltd., leading UK manufacturers of floor-based conveyors and related components. The acquisition strengthens Industrial Automation’s position in material handling and complements its existing businesses in the sector.

Conveyor Units develops and manufactures a wide range of floor-based conveyors and related components for system integrators and OEMs. Its products are used across several industries, including manufacturing, warehousing, intralogistics and parcel handling. Its sister company, Bridge Bearings, supplies a broad range of bearings. Together, the two companies employ 145 people at their two sites in Stourport-on-Severn and Lye, UK.

With more than 60 years of experience, the companies have built a strong reputation for their technical expertise, product quality and long-standing customer relationships. Combining in-house engineering and manufacturing, they deliver tailored conveyor solutions designed to meet customers’ specific requirements.

“Conveyor Units and Bridge Bearings represent well-established businesses with an excellent reputation and highly skilled teams. Their technical expertise and product offering complement our existing material handling businesses, and we see great potential to develop them further together,” says Anton Kullh, Managing Director of Industrial Automation.

The companies’ history began with Edward Toye, who founded Bridge Bearings in 1958 and Conveyor Units in 1963. Ian Bytheway and Robert Hickman later assumed responsibility for the businesses, continuing to develop the companies while preserving their founder’s legacy.

“We have always felt a responsibility to build on what Edward Toye started, while continuing to develop the companies for the future. Finding the right long-term owner has therefore been important to us. We see strong opportunities to build on the companies’ momentum and continue their development together with an owner that brings long-term commitment and deep industrial experience. We believe this is a great fit and that the companies and their people will have every opportunity to continue growing,” says Robert Hickman.

The companies will continue to operate under their existing management team, led by Managing Director Liam Naven-Jones. The team has played an important role in the companies’ development and will continue to drive the businesses forward. Ian Bytheway and Robert Hickman will remain involved during a transition period to support a smooth handover.