Ford Aerospace, a manufacturer in South Tyneside, has been acquired by a U.S. conglomerate that has pledged to create new jobs and invest in the company.
SPIROL, a family-owned manufacturing group headquartered in Connecticut, has acquired the South Shields business after 30 years of collaboration between the two companies. The deal’s value has not been disclosed.
Robert Ford founded Ford Aerospace at Tyne Dock in 1910, and the family business is currently led by the founder’s great-grandson, Chris Ford. The 76-person company specialises in producing high-precision metal components and sub-assemblies for the aerospace, industrial, and high-technology industries.
As part of the agreement, Mr. Ford will resign as managing director but will remain as a consultant for the foreseeable future. SPIROL is a successful family-owned business with a history closely tied to the advancement of aviation.
