Sunderland thermal heating firm partners with 'leading' US company

A Sunderland thermal systems business is celebrating after forming a strategic partnership with a major US company.

HTUK, based at the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC), has secured a long term relationship with US-based Watlow - the world’s largest industrial heating manufacturer.

Established in 2001, the company has grown into an integrated thermal solutions provider and operate under the HTUK banner. The firm installs and supplies industrial heaters, temperature sensors, controllers, insulation and system assemblies.

The business also specialises in designing and manufacturing complete thermal systems, allowing them to recommend, develop and deliver thermal solutions for their customers.

The firm is now a distributor for Watlow; their collaboration marks significant business progress for the Sunderland firm according to HTUK’s managing director, Alan Pearson.

He said: “We’re delighted to be working with Watlow and to have a great relationship with their European Distribution Manager, Walter Taylor.

“They have big ambitions to be a billion-dollar company by 2023 and we’re very happy to be part of their journey.

“Opening up export is crucial to our long term success so developing and maintaining a good relationship with world class partners is essential to that success. With the addition of Watlow’s products we now have access to different markets meaning new customers.”

The company’s growth is further highlighted by the fact that, over the 16 years, HTUK has been based at the BIC, continuing to expand and becoming a ‘leading’ heating supplier.

After starting out in a small incubator unit, the family-run business now occupies a large office and warehouse at the BIC to house its staff and stocks. The firm now distributes products to over 20 different countries worldwide.

Watlow’s Walter Taylor added: “Both of our companies’ sales are on the rise which is great news for both parties.

“The partnership has been successful so far and we’re delighted with the way business is going.”