Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between KEC Limited and Harwin PLC

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the acquisition of KEC by Harwin.

Founded in 1979, KEC has established itself as a manufacturer of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) backshells and panel fittings designed for use in demanding, mission-critical applications. Its products are widely used in aerospace, defence and high-end industrial environments where long-term reliability is essential.

Harwin is a leading manufacturer of high-reliability electronic interconnect solutions, including connectors, cable assemblies, EMC shielding and PCB hardware. Its products are used in demanding applications across the aerospace, defence, industrial, medical, energy and transportation sectors.

The acquisition brings KEC's portfolio of rugged interconnect technologies into Harwin's existing offering of signal, power and coax connector products and accessories. It also strengthens Harwin’s position in the aerospace, defence and industrial markets while broadening its range of high-reliability connectivity solutions.

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Cheryl Watson, managing director of KEC, commented: “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.”

Robin Kent, sales and marketing director, added: “Throughout the process there was genuine respect for what David [Dyson, KEC chair] and Cheryl had built over the last four decades. That gave me real confidence, and I’m incredibly excited about what we can achieve together as part of the Harwin group.”

Andrew McQuilken, chief executive officer of Harwin, said: “[KEC] 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.”

Harwin’s executive chair, William de Laszlo, added: “We are incredibly honoured that David and Cheryl entrusted us with the company they have spent more than four decades building. 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.”

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