Helix sharpens edge with double takeover

A Yorkshire-based industrial tooling company has strengthened its position in the market with the acquisition of two complementary businesses, expanding its reach and technical capabilities.

Leeds-headquartered Helix Tool Company, backed by NVM Private Equity, has acquired Hertfordshire-based Floyd Automatic Tooling and Newcastle-based Nsert in undisclosed transactions. 

Bosses say the move will help the Helix team to “complement its existing offer” and increase its “technical expertise” and geographical footprint, as it follows a strategy of combining organic growth with acquisitions to consolidate the industrial tooling distribution sector.

Floyd Automatic Tooling specialises in supplying tools and consumables for the sliding head CNC market, while Nsert is a cutting tool and consumables provider with a strong presence in the North East, enabling Helix to broaden its product range and strengthening its service offering in precision engineering, aerospace, automotive and medical sectors.

Matt Cattell, chief executive officer of Helix Tool’s holding company MRO+ Solutions, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Floyd Automatic and Nsert into the Helix family.

“The combined deep technical expertise in both companies complements our existing offer perfectly. 

“Today’s announcement signifies a strong start to 2025 for Helix and we are confident that customers will see significant benefit both in terms of product offering and exceptional technical expertise.”

Charlie Pidgeon, investment artner of NVM Private Equity, added: “Consolidation of markets is an obvious driver of growth and with such a strong reputation for technical expertise we saw a clear opportunity for Matt to integrate these businesses into an enlarged group. 

“We are delighted to have supported them on their first two acquisitions and look forward to backing the team with more opportunities as they arise.”

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