The Wellesbourne-based Engineering Technology Group (ETG — www.engtechgroup .com) has acquired HK Holdings and all of its subsidiaries from the Pexion Group in a deal that is “promising to transform the way manufacturers access the latest technologies”.

ETG, which celebrates its 25th birthday later this year, can now offer its growing client base a single-source solution for CNC machining, wire EDM machining, 3-D printing and additive manufacturing.

Managing director Martin Doyle said: “3-D printing, in particular, has gone through the ‘proving’ stage and is now seen as a viable way of manufacturing for sub-contractors and OEMs.

“As a result, the surge in sales in the market-place is huge and expected to hit $14 billion globally by the end of 2020.

“We had two choices: look to take on existing principals and agree new distribution agreements or purchase a company that is already established in the sector.

“Pexion Group is a key account for ETG, with multiple CNC machines installed across its group of companies.

“We knew it was reviewing how to develop HK Holdings and approached it about the possibility of integrating it into our business.

“It is a perfect fit; we have a nation-wide network of customers for CNC machining and automation, and a lot of those have a need for EDM machines and additive manufacturing — and the benefits work both ways.”

ETG offers turn-key solutions to customers involved in aerospace, automotive, high-value engineering, medical, and oil and gas; brands offered include Chiron, Nakamura, Quaser, Hardinge, Bavius and Stama.

With the acquisition of HK Holdings, ETG now offers leading brands in additive manufacturing, including 3D Systems and Markforged; on the EDM side, it will now sell the latest Mitsubishi and OPS-Ingersoll EDM machines.

Mr Doyle concluded: “Rugby-based HK Technologies is a respected brand and has excellent people working in the company.

“Our plan is to invest in the name, a new marketing drive and ensure the vast technical knowledge is brought to the fore, maximising cross-selling opportunities in the process.

“There are also a number of ancillary products we can add to our portfolio, ranging from laser marking and gear-grinding machines to precision shaft-machining equipment and tooling systems.”