Harwin Strengthens High-Reliability Offering with Acquisition of KEC

Harwin has announced that it has acquired KEC Limited, the UK specialist designer and manufacturer of rugged interconnect technologies for the aerospace, defence and high-end industrial sectors.

Founded in 1979, UK-based KEC has built a reputation as a leading manufacturer of high-performance EMC backshells and panel fittings that deliver long-term, reliable operation in complex, mission-critical applications. Harwin will now add the full range of KEC technologies and services to its existing portfolio of high-reliability signal, power and coax connector technologies and accessories.

In addition to expanding the Harwin product range, the acquisition will ensure KEC’s circular and D-type EMC backshells, glands and panel fittings and fully bespoke solutions are available to a wider market thanks to Harwin’s comprehensive global sales, distribution and support network.

“KEC is an outstanding strategic fit for Harwin and the acquisition broadens our product offering, strengthens our position in the aerospace and defence markets, and adds exceptional technical expertise to our business,” says Andrew McQuilken, Harwin’s chief executive officer. “More importantly, it brings great people into the Harwin family. We are committed to investing for the long term, preserving what has made KEC successful, and creating new opportunities for its employees and customers around the world.”

“We chose Harwin as our acquisition partner because of their shared belief in British engineering and manufacturing, and the reputation associated with the company name,” comments David Dyson, chairman and owner, KEC, while Cheryl Watson, KEC’s managing director and owner states: “We wanted to find a home where our people, our customers and our values would be respected. Harwin is a fantastic British engineering success story, and we genuinely believe they are the right custodians to take KEC forward.”

William de Laszlo, executive chair, Harwin adds: “Through this acquisition Harwin has become the custodian of an exceptional British engineering business. By protecting the KEC heritage while investing in its future, our ambition is to grow KEC for the long term. This will create opportunities for its people, customers and partners while preserving the values that have made the company so successful.”

Robin Kent, KEC’s sales and marketing director, concludes: “Working with William de Laszlo and the Harwin team to complete the acquisition was a very positive experience. Throughout the process there was genuine respect for what David and Cheryl had built over the last four decades and I’m incredibly excited about what we can achieve together as part of the Harwin group.”