Amtek Auto acquires UK company''s London assets

Amtek Auto Ltd has acquired the complete assets of the UK-based J L French''s (Witham) Ltd (JLF), which manufactures HPDC aluminium for automotive applications.

J L French''s business has been developed to offer die-casting solutions including product design, simulation, testing, rapid prototyping, high pressure die-casting, precision machining and assembly. This is predominantly aimed at the European automotive industry however there are a number of alternative strategic markets, which could also be explored.

JLF is a well regarded full service supplier for FEAD (front end auxiliary drive) and engine / transmission bracket supply and has been a "Q1" accredited Ford Motor company (FMC) key tier 1 supplier for a number of years and is currently working towards ensuring that they are TS compliant. This facility currently makes a variety of aluminium castings for the likes of Land Rover, Jaguar, Trellborg, Ford and PSA (Peugeot).

JLF Witham facility also has a fully equipped where most of the aluminium castings produced in the HPDC facility are machined. The current sales revenues are at about $60 million with 60 per cent capacity utilisation. This facility has 18 HPDC lines between 400 and 1600 tons rating and is capable of generating sales revenue of $120 million.

This acquisition enables Amtek expand its customer and product portfolio while also acquiring new technology in automotive component manufacturing, especially in aluminium high pressure die-casting segment.