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TPT HALF Ad-SEPT2016.indd 1 7/14/16 5:05 PM
I NDUS T RY
Robotic innovation
sparks growth
ANT Hire, a UK supplier of specialist testing and construction
equipment to thewater industry, has announced an expansion
of its business and services fuelled by the commercial
success of its technology-led robotics and pressure testing
divisions.
The expansion of the specialist divisions is the first phase
of a growth strategy that aims to increase turnover from
£4mn to £10mn in the next five years and create a number
of new job opportunities.
Ant Hire provides pressure testing solutions and specialist
robotic inspection systems to large contractors and water
companies across the UK, including Yorkshire Water,
Thames Water, Kier, Lumsden & Carroll and JN Bentley.
The company has its own research and development team
based in Leeds, which has led to a number of design patents
and inventions. These include the ‘Ten Minute Test’ – a water
pressure testing system that reduces the time required to
check for leaks and reduces water company reconnection
times – and the development of bespoke robotic camera
systems now used by the nuclear industry.
Ant Hire managing partner Adrian Thompson said, “Ant
Hire has always been a well-known name in the water
supply industry but we’ve recently seen a huge increase
in new business enquiries, particularly in our robotics and
pressure testing divisions, which has meant we needed
to grow to keep pace with demand. At Ant Hire we aim to
provide our customers involved in drainage and clean water
networks with an excellent service, and the new space and
additions to the team will enable us to offer a one-stop shop
for products, advice and technical support to get the job
done and to make things simpler for customers.”
As part of its recent growth, Ant Hire appointed Antony
Scott as director. With more than ten years working in senior
roles within the drainage industry, Mr Scott will lead all
sales activity for the business and will oversee the launch
of new prototype equipment in both the pressure testing and
robotics divisions.
The new head office involved a capital investment of more
than £350,000, and the new space will enable the business
to expand its core teams to support growth and to enhance
the customer experience. The new site will also be home to
Ant Hire’s research and development division.
Ant Hire Solutions – UK
Website:
Antony Scott