TPi July 2016

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July 2016 Tube Products International 55
Peter Westerman,
MD of Westermans International
• Began working life as a stoker on the railways
• Started selling from an early age, following
the lead of his mother, who owned a second-
hand shop and bought from auctions
• Joined Petbow Cummins, a large welding
equipment supplier, in 1963, and quickly
became national sales manager
• Set up Leicester Welding Supplies in the mid-
1970s, going on to win large contracts (British
Steel, Corby and others in the UK’s East
Midlands region)
• Sold up and retired by 1986, aged 45
• Started his current business a couple of years
later, as a used welding equipment dealer in a
1,000ft2 unit with only three staff
n What’s the most exciting or challenging project you have
overcome during your career so far and why?
The most exciting project was when I decided to retire at
the age of 45. I could not predict how quickly I would get
bored. I realised then I wasn’t interested in anything other
than welding, but not being able to supply new machines due
to a clause in the buyout contract, I found a way by selling
refurbished used products. I remember the industry, back in
the 80s, thought I had gone mad. It was long before recycling
was considered to be fashionable like it is now.
n What is your proudest moment?
Recently I was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award
by the Association of Welding Distributors. It is a very humble
yet proud feeling to witness over 200 people in your industry
and your colleagues – all there to witness your business
commitment and passion of the trade.
n How do you see the tube and pipe industry (or your
specific sector of it) changing over the next five to ten years
following the global recession? What do you think the
industry can learn for the future from the past few years?
Nothing stands still and nothing is safe nowadays. I think the
industry can learn about adapting to changes quickly, as and
when they happen. As a global supplier, we also must move
with industry trends. For example, technology is constantly
changing, same as industry standards do. Robotic welding for
precise work will be vital and more imposing, so training skilled
Westermans International Ltd – UK
staff to fill our skill shortages is also vital. I believe health and
safety will play an even bigger part. Manufacturing will always
be a massive part of the economy, but efficiency and pricing
are key to a successful business service or product.
n What advice would you give to someone trying to make it
in the tube industry? If a student or young person wanted
to get involved, what should they do?
I would say, “Do look ten years ahead.” Make time to
research the latest legislations, as these are key to the future
manufacturing in the tube and pipe sectors. I would also tell
them, “Think big and bolder.” In 2016, skilled engineers are
in high demand, more than ever. There are some amazing
technology training centres worldwide that can be tapped into
for further knowledge.