Electroplating specialist BEP Surface Technologies buys Yorkshire consultancy Plating Solutions

An electroplating specialist has acquired an internationally-focused consultancy as it continues its growth plans.

BEP Surface Technologies, based in Radcliffe, Bury, has taken over Huddersfield specialised metal finishing plant design and equipment consultancy Plating Solutions.

The Yorkshire firm was founded 20 years ago by John Torr. The BEP deal, whose value has not been disclosed, will allow for Mr Torr's eventual retirement as he takes a consultant’s role and leads a team of commercial staff and chemical engineers.

READ MORE: High voltage specialist Excalon acquired by Renew for £26m

GENERAL ELECTION: Take our BusinessLive North West election survey

BEP operates in the plastics, defence, energy, power generation, and nuclear sectors, with specialisms in areas including electric vehicle battery production.

BEP works with international governments, academia and businesses to address business challenges in existing and emerging sectors. Recent work has included developing a novel graphene-impregnated copper coating in partnership with the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) in Manchester, and working on research into the development of copper-coated containers for global nuclear waste management organisations.

It says the deal marks a "significant" expansion and positions BEP as a leading player in the UK’s metal plating and specialty chemicals trading sector.

Andrew McClusky, managing director of BEP Surface Technologies, said: "We are thrilled to welcome John Torr and the Plating Solutions clients into the BEP family. John's unparalleled expertise and dedication to advancing surface technologies perfectly align with our mission to drive innovation and excellence in engineering.”

BEP recently launched BEP Solutions to accelerate international R&D partnerships to help solve global challenges in surface coating.

Mr McClusky added: “John’s stellar reputation in innovation and problem-solving has been instrumental in providing cutting-edge solutions to clients across the UK and internationally.

"Our recently launched innovation arm, BEP Solutions, will benefit from his deep understanding of process chemistry and commitment to excellence, which have earned him recognition as a leader in the field.”

John Torr has more than 55 years of experience developing pioneering electroplating solutions. He said: "Joining forces with BEP Solutions presents an exciting opportunity for me to share my expertise. I am confident that we will continue to deliver exceptional solutions while driving innovation in metal plating. I look forward to contributing to BEP's visionary projects and leading a team of passionate professionals toward new heights of success."

Don't miss the latest news and analysis with our regular newsletters - sign up here for free.