Fluid Transfer International becomes the 180th Beacon Company
Fluid Transfer International, a finalist in last year's Gloucester Citizen and Gloucestershire Echo Business Awards 2006, has been recognised once again for its business prowess. Beacon South West, a South West of England Regional Development Agency initiative that identifies and awards companies with a proven track record of success, has named Fluid Transfer International as the 180th company to be given the coveted Beacon status.
The company, which is based in Nailsworth, traditionally designed, developed and manufactured refuelling vehicles, systems and equipment for aircraft. Following the events of September 11, it re-invented itself to shift its reliance on the volatile aviation industry, becoming more customer-focused and targeting new sectors such as marine and ground refueling solutions.
Over the last five years, Fluid Transfer International has won large contracts with the MOD and in Malaysia and China and has also begun offering technical services and maintenance personnel, branching out beyond its typical manufacturing remit.
With a turnover of £15m and more than 100 employees, the company has gone from strength to strength in 2007 with the opening of its new facilities that have increased its manufacturing capability by 40 per cent.
Sue Baker, director of Beacon South West, says: "We were impressed with the way Fluid Transfer International has transformed itself since 2001 into a leading global player. Rather than being defeated by the downturn in the aviation industry, it took the opportunity to evaluate, innovate and discover new opportunities for growth, both in the UK and overseas. This determination to succeed, whatever the challenges, makes the company a terrific role model for businesses across the South West and we are proud to welcome it to the Beacon network."
Fluid Transfer International is the preferred supplier for the world's major oil companies and also has long-term supply and support contracts with military defence organisations across the world.
John Little, managing director of Fluid Transfer International, says: "We are excited to be joining the Beacon network and to be able to interface with like-minded companies and people, sharing ideas and accelerating the spread of good business and management practice in the South West."
