The two companies, jointly operating out of Hatchmoor Industrial Estate in Torrington under the same managment, specialise in the manufacture and supply of a range of vibration monitoring equipment for military helicopters worldwide and the global power industry.
The growing businesses now employ 65 staff and are hoping to double turnover to around £10 million in the next three to five years.
Helitune and Beran Instruments have expanded their premises in Torrington following a £1 million investment from the South West Regional Development Agency, and an additional £250,000 capital investment from the company’s own funds to fit out the new building. The company has also been supported by the South West Investment Group, Barclays Bank and the Small Business Service.
This has helped Helitune / Beran to build a larger production area, more office space and new storage and testing areas.The 7,900 sq ft expansion, built by contractors Kier Western, was necessary following Beran’s acquisition of Cheltenham-based Helitune in June 2000, which specialises in monitoring equipment for helicopters.
Managing Director Andy Lobato said: “Our business has grown substantially since our acquisition of Helitune, which we relocated to North Devon, but the lack of suitable premises in the Torrington area meant we faced the prospect of moving the company away from the town in order to fulfil new contracts."
“With the support we have received from a number of partners, we have been able to expand our premises and grow our workforce, creating new jobs for local people, and we are looking at further growth.”
Nick Buckland (Deputy Chairman of the South West RDA) said: “The advanced engineering and aerospace sectors are key priorities for the South West RDA, which is why we have been able to support Beran / Helitune with this expansion. These are world-class products in a growing global market and the company is now well poised to pursue new opportunities.”
The official opening was performed by John Burnett, former MP for Torridge and West Devon, who has decided to retire from politics this year after eight years as an MP. He said: “Beran Instruments is a major employer in Torrington, with a high number of graduate employees. I’m delighted that the company has been able to remain in North Devon, where it makes a valuable contribution to the local economy.”
