A Bradford business with a history spanning over 170 years has been sold after entering administration on 29th August.

Thomas Wright/Thorite Group Limited, a prominent wholesaler, distributor, and installer of compressed air equipment, has operated from its base in the city since 1850, with seven sales and service centers across the UK. The company is a key provider of pneumatics, compressed air, vacuum, and fluid handling products and systems.

Earlier last week (23 August), Howard Smith and Rick Harrison from Interpath Advisory were appointed as joint administrators for Thomas Wright/Thorite Group Limited. Interpath Advisory noted that Thorite had recently faced trading difficulties, leading to a loss-making situation. After exploring sale, refinancing, and investment options, it became evident that a solvent solution was unfeasible, prompting the directors to seek the appointment of administrators.

Immediately after their appointment, the joint administrators sold the business and its assets to AIM-listed Flowtech Fluidpower plc, a hydraulics company based in Skelmersdale. As part of the acquisition, all 105 employees of Thorite have transferred to Flowtech.

Flowtech Fluidpower plc has acquired the entire business and assets of Thorite, which will enhance and expand Flowtech’s current brand and product offerings in pneumatics, hydraulics, automation, and control. This acquisition also strengthens Flowtech’s engineering services and solutions through its 11 Engineering Solution Centres.

Flowtech’s CEO, Mike England, expressed enthusiasm about acquiring Thorite, a company with 174 years of heritage and a strong market reputation in pneumatics and air management. The acquisition aligns well with Flowtech’s strategy, integrating Thorite’s expertise in pneumatics, automation, and compressed air capabilities into its operations. This move also secures the future of a historic company while offering Flowtech an opportunity to further its growth and capabilities in related industries.