Walker Filtration to expand global reach following acquisition by multi-national manufacturer
Commercial law firm Square One Law has advised on the sale of North East-based Walker Filtration to international manufacturer Atlas Copco., a world-leading provider of sustainable productivity solutions.
The deal follows a longstanding commercial relationship, with Atlas Copco historically being one of Walker Filtration’s largest customers. Walker Filtration will continue to act as a separate and independent business within the Atlas Copco family of companies and there are no planned changes in trading.
Producing an extensive range of compressed air filtration and drying equipment, the Washington-based company, operates in global markets with offices in Europe, USA, Australia and Japan and employs 220 people in the North East.
The significant inward investment that comes with the sale will support the continued growth of Walker Filtration enabling it to connect with Atlas Copco’s group network of subsidiaries. This integration will also encourage inter-trading and cross-selling of products and expertise which will further enhance Walker Filtration’s market position.
Lianne Walker MBE, Group Managing Director of Walker Filtration, said: “Walker Filtration is synonymous with high-quality filtration solutions and will increase our presence and competence in the industrial filtration market. Walker Filtration is a respected company with a strong brand name, an excellent product portfolio and a reputation for innovation. We’re delighted to be joining the Atlas Copco family. We’ll continue to offer innovation throughout our product portfolio to meet our growing customers’ needs and will continue to provide customers with outstanding products and services.
“We have been really well looked after throughout by the Square One Law team.”
Walker Filtration’s shareholders were advised by Corporate Partners John Hammill and James Bryce.
John Hammill, corporate partner at Square One Law, said: “We were delighted to act on behalf of the Walker Filtration shareholders on this deal. The investment demonstrates there is significant international interest in the capability of North East manufacturing businesses and their highly skilled workforces.”
