US expansion safeguards 400 jobs

Control Techniques has offices around the world

One of mid Wales' largest employers has bought an American competitor in a multimillion-pound deal which safeguards 400 jobs.

Industrial electronics firm Control Techniques (CT), of Newtown, Powys, said the acquisition of Saftronics could double its sales in the United States and boost profits.

CT, founded in Wales in 1974 and owned by US company Emerson, makes drives for a variety of industrial machines.

It has 35 offices worldwide.

The firm said it had wanted to acquire Florida-based Saftronics to help accelerate sales.

Company president Pierre Sarre said it was a "pivotal time of growth" for CT and employees in Newtown could look ahead with confidence.

Mr Sarre said: "This purchase solidifies Control Techniques' market position by increasing demand for our industrial drives products designed and built here in Newtown".

He said the acquisition was a sign of the company's "healthy position" and provided it with a stronger platform in America.

CT has bought Saftronics for an undisclosed fee, but it is understood to run into millions of pounds.