Solenoid business has its attractions

The electromagnet and power transmission specialist Stephenson Gobin has set up three divisions dedicated to its core activities: SG Power Transmission, handling clutches, brakes and geared motors; Geofire, which will deal with fire and security applications; and Isliker Solenoids, which will represent the Swiss solenoid-maker in the UK. It has also dropped gearboxes from its portfolio.

In particular, the company is confident that the Isliker business will take off. Traditionally, Isliker has focused on the top end of the solenoid market and on producing bespoke products for specific customers. Now it has launched a "budget" range of standard 30 DC solenoids and this is expected to boost its presence in the UK.

"The new KGS range will help us to build the Isliker brand awareness in the UK," says Roy Walker, Isliker Solenoids` sales manager. "They are premium products, but competing with conventional solenoids," he says.

At present, Isliker accounts for about a quarter of Stephenson Gobin`s business, but Walker is confident that this figure will increase with the availability of new range.