Bunting Opens European Manufacturing and Sales Center

Newton, Kan.-based Bunting Magnetics Co. has announced the launch of a manufacturing and sales operation center in Berkhamsted, England. The New office will serve the United Kingdom, the European Union and the Africa.

The expansion coincides with the acquisition of Magnet Applications by Bunting, which was completed in April 2008. Magnet Applications was founded in 1955 and currently has manufacturing operations in Dubois, Pa., and Berkhamsted, England. Magnet Applications manufactures and distributes a variety of technical bonded magnets, precision magnetic assemblies and complementary magnet products.

“This expansion is an extension of our acquisition,” Robert Bunting, the company’s owner and CEO says. “Magnet Applications significantly expands Bunting’s product and market scope. They have outstanding market recognition as a premier manufacturer of bonded NdFeB magnets and technical assemblies.” He adds, “Now, by manufacturing Bunting equipment within the European Union, we will be able to build on the reputation of both companies and offer a fuller range of magnetic technology to the eastern hemisphere.”

In May 2010, as part of this expanded presence in Europe, Gareth Meese was named export sales manager for Magnet Applications Ltd., a division of Bunting. Meese will have dual responsibilities to oversee and develop sales for the product lines for both Bunting and MAL.

“Gareth will be vital to our continued strategic focus on the European Union,” Bunting says.

Meese’s primary responsibilities will be sales in the United Kingdom, the European Union and the African continent. He is tasked with establishing an extensive network of distributors and engaging original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for long-term partnerships. Gareth, who started with MAL in May 2009, will also be instrumental in new product development and developing new distribution channels.

“Through our efforts, we will be able to quickly build upon the 50 years of experience and history of the company and establish Bunting as the leader for magnetic separation products in the rapidly developing European market,” Meese says.

Meese holds a bachelor of science degree in physics from the University of Wales in Cardiff and has more than eight years of sales experience primarily in the financial services, factory automation and industrial equipment industries. Gareth will be based at MAL headquarters in Berkhamsted.

Bunting is a major U.S.-based manufacturer of magnetic assemblies and equipment. More information is available at www.buntingmagnetics.com. More information on Magnet Applications Ltd. is available at www.magnetapplicatons.com.

[RT]