Sigma expands global pipe manufacturing footprint

Sigma Components has expanded its global pipe manufacturing footprint, following a sustained period of growth and the strategic acquisition of Rolls-Royce's internal pipe manufacturing business.

A leading manufacturer of precision engineered components and fixings for the aerospace sector, Sigma Components employees more than 750 people across its four facilities in the UK and two in China.

The acquisition of the Rolls-Royce pipe business for around £3.5million earlier this year was integral to Sigma's ambitious growth plans, strengthening the company's position on several key engine programmes including Trent XWB, the world's most efficient large aero-engine.

It also enabled Sigma Components to add manufacturing facilities at Nuneaton in the UK and Xi'an in China to its existing capabilities at Hinckley, Nottingham and Farnborough in the UK, and Chengdu in China.

This expansion of Sigma's manufacturing footprint enhances its offer to global aerospace OEMs, adding to Sigma's established presence in both the UK and China.

Mark Johnson, founder and CEO of Sigma Components, said: “We understand the value of localisation, not globalisation, and the acquisition of the Rolls-Royce pipe business has enabled us to strengthen our operations in both the UK and China.

“Some manufacturers look to lower-cost economies simply to outsource the production of basic components, but we have taken a longer-term approach.

“By continuing to invest in facilities in the UK and China, we have been able to create genuine manufacturing partnerships with our global customers without losing sight of the local issues, mutual opportunities and specialist skills that exist in both markets. It also means we can use the most-appropriate manufacturing facilities at every stage of the product lifecycle to optimise performance and competitiveness throughout the supply chain.

“The integration of the Nuneaton and Xi'an sites, has given us a competitive edge across a number of key projects so we can continue to develop our in-house expertise, while delivering greater value to customers.”