Merseyside manufacturer expands to US market

Posted on 17 Apr 2015 by The Manufacturer

A fast-growing Wirral conveyer belt manufacturer is expanding to the US market.

Prenton-based Sovex manufactures more than 30 varieties of vehicle loaders and transport conveyor systems – used to move packaged goods in, out and around warehouses.

Now it is to launch in the US market. Targeting the booming multi-billion dollar e-commerce and parcel handling markets.

Founder and chairman, David Lindfield, said the company had driven turnover to more than £24m since setting up in 2002. However, he believes the US retail e-commerce market – estimated to be worth more than $340bn and rapidly expanding – holds the key to further growth.

The firm has a 50,000 sq ft UK-based factory, with more than 160 employees, and has been named as the fastest growing firm in Merseyside, and number 82 in the 2014 Virgin Sunday Times Fast Track Top 100.

Sovex has appointed Lonnie Watkins to lead the new US operation from Denver, Colorado. Watkins will head Sovex Incorporated targeting North America and Canada.

Lindfield said: “[Watkins] led the American operation of competitor Caljan for close to a decade. He brings first class product knowledge and unparalleled experience of the US and Canadian conveyor system markets.

“Essentially, we’re looking to replicate our existing business model in the US. This involves the design, manufacture, supply, installation and maintenance of vehicle loaders and transport conveyor systems – the sheer land-mass in the US however means we will be taking on the market in different ways.

“We will initially ship-out products and partner with local manufacturers on the ground to deliver installation and maintenance services, with a view of launching a manufacturing facility in the future.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO72OMWvm8E