Zenith Tecnica Limited Announces Acquisition and Expansion of Metal Additive Manufacturing Capacity

Problem: Reaching the Limits of Current Manufacturing Capacity

Zenith Tecnica Limited, a New Zealand-based contract manufacturer specializing in Electron Beam Melting (EBM) titanium parts for high-performance sectors such as space, medical, and advanced manufacturing, faced a critical challenge. The company had reached full capacity with its fleet of six EBM systems, driven by robust demand from key clients. These clients included Lanteris Space Systems' satellite and spaceflight programs, NASA's Psyche mission, patient-specific orthopaedic implants, critical medical instruments, and high-performance marine applications. The demand surge highlighted the need for immediate expansion to meet customer requirements and sustain growth.

Solution: Strategic Acquisition and Capacity Expansion

The acquisition of Zenith Tecnica by Andrew Burgess and Blair Jordan, former executives from Amazon and Boeing, aims to address this challenge head-on. The deal, completed on June 18th, brings a wealth of experience in aerospace production, global industrial operations, and highly regulated environments, such as Amazon’s low-earth orbit satellite programs and Boeing’s aerospace manufacturing.

The new ownership plans to implement a two-pronged expansion strategy:

• Equipment Upgrade: The addition of two new EBM systems will increase the company's production capacity, allowing it to handle more orders and reduce lead times.
• Facility Expansion: The company will move to a larger facility to accommodate the new equipment and provide additional space for future growth.

"Looking ahead, our goal is simple: focusing on scaling alongside our customers in a way that stays true to how we operate," said incoming Managing Director Blair Jordan. "That means continuing to invest in the capability behind the business, whether that is equipment, people, or floor space, so we can grow capacity without losing the speed and flexibility that our reputation has been built on."

Results: Strengthening Position as a Leading EBM Manufacturing Partner

This acquisition marks the beginning of a 'significant expansion phase' for Zenith Tecnica, positioning it as one of the world's largest and most capable EBM manufacturing partners. The company is committed to maintaining its reputation for speed and flexibility while scaling operations to meet growing demand.

Outgoing owner Heather Grace expressed her satisfaction with the transition, stating, "When I took ownership of Zenith after my tenure as General Manager, my goal was always to strengthen the business, continue to nurture and build our capable team, and ultimately transition it into the hands of owners who could drive its next stage of growth. I couldn't be happier with where the company stands today and the opportunities that lie ahead."

Key Outcomes:

• Increased Production Capacity: The addition of two new EBM systems will enhance the company's ability to fulfill orders.
• Larger Facility: The move to a new location will provide the necessary space for expansion and future growth.
• Continued Focus on Quality and Flexibility: The new owners are committed to maintaining the company's reputation for high-quality, flexible manufacturing solutions.

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