In a move to strengthen its foothold in the work zone safety sector, HAKI Safety has successfully acquired Semmco Group, a prominent UK-based manufacturer specialising in safe access platforms for aircraft and train maintenance.
This acquisition broadens HAKI’s product portfolio and extends its reach into new sectors and geographic markets, positioning the company for significant growth within the aviation and rail industries.
Semmco Group, headquartered in Woking, Surrey, has been at the forefront of providing maintenance access solutions for over 30 years, designing platforms, steps, and docking systems tailored for aircraft, helicopters, and trains.
With a global footprint that includes a manufacturing and sales operation in Arlington, Texas, and a sales office in Dubai serving the Middle East and Asian markets, Semmco has built a robust reputation among international aviation and rail operators.
The company has shown steady growth, reporting a turnover of approximately SEK 100 million (GBP 7 million) over the past year.
“The acquisition of Semmco aligns with our strategy to expand geographically”
Sverker Lindberg, President and CEO of HAKI Safety, shared insights into the strategic acquisition: “We continue the Group’s growth journey with a focus on products and solutions that create safe working conditions in complex environments.
The acquisition of Semmco aligns with our strategy to expand geographically and within sectors with complex needs. This acquisition allows HAKI Safety to expand into the aviation and rail sectors, which is very exciting.”
For HAKI, Semmco’s established market presence and customer-oriented approach are a natural fit. Like HAKI, Semmco collaborates closely with its clients from the design phase through to delivery and beyond, fostering long-term relationships.
The integration is expected to generate opportunities for shared production and sales capabilities, further bolstering both companies’ operations.
Semmco’s founder, Stuart McOnie, who has led the company since its inception in 1993, expressed confidence in HAKI’s stewardship: “I started Semmco over 31 years ago with the ambition of building a reputable and successful business.
We took our time to find the right partner with the same focus on manufacturing excellence and business integrity. I believe that HAKI Safety is the right business to take Semmco forward to continued success.”
The acquisition includes a purchase price of up to £8.5 million, combining a fixed sum of £5.6 million and a performance-based additional price of up to £2.9 million, contingent on Semmco’s performance in 2025.
HAKI expects no material integration costs, and the acquisition is anticipated to have a positive impact on the Group’s 2024 results.
Positioned for Growth
With strong growth forecasts for the aviation industry, particularly in the Middle East and Asia, and increasing demand for rail transport amid global green initiatives, HAKI’s acquisition of Semmco is timely.
By combining HAKI’s established reputation in scaffolding and access solutions with Semmco’s expertise in aviation and rail access, the company is well-positioned to serve a growing need for safe and efficient maintenance solutions across multiple industries.
