The German automation supplier Beckhoff Automation has acquired its UK distributor, Hayes Control Systems, for an undisclosed sum. Hayes, which has represented Beckhoff exclusively in the UK since 1994, has been renamed Beckhoff Automation.

The German parent company says that the move expands its commitment in the British and Irish markets. It plans to intensify its activities in the British Isles and hopes to expand its market share.

“Great Britain and Ireland are strategically important markets for us, since many international companies have their headquarters and make global decisions here,” explains Beckhoff’s international sales manager, Kai Ristau (above). “Therefore it is important for us to be present locally with a Beckhoff team.”

Beckhoff will stay at Hayes’ riverside premises at Henley-on-Thames with Stephen Hayes, founder of Hayes Control Systems, becoming managing director of the new Beckhoff branch. The UK company’s 13-strong team is transferring to the new business, thus retaining their technical skills and customer contacts.

“We see added growth potential by expanding our sales in Great Britain and Ireland,” says Stephen Hayes (above). “Our marketing strategy is to concentrate on areas in which we can offer our customers decisive benefits with our technical innovations.” Beckhoff also plans to expand its activities in areas such as drives, renewable energy and scientific automation.