Urban Headman, business area manager, lifting, Gunnebo Industries, said, “We have a strategy to move more into servicing. They service cranes and lifting gear, and this fits our strategy. We’ve worked with EmiSafe for many years; we will continue distributing in the Middle East through them, with a higher focus on product sales.”
He continued, “The Middle East is one of the quickest growing markets in the world for our equipment. We will use this deal as a base for our expansion into other countries in the region, not just the UAE.
“We will continue to use the EmiSafe name for the time being, as they have a good reputation in the region. We have bought 49% of the company, the maximum amount allowed for a foreign investor, but have contractual control of the remaining 51%. It will be our staff who manage the company.”
Gunnebo would not disclose the terms or cost of the deal.
Gunnebo is an international manufacturer, selling lifting gear and a range of associated components. In 2006 it recorded sales of SEK1.7bn (EUR184m). Emirates Safety Services was established in 1979. It offers inspection and testing services for lifting gear, and manufactures wire and webbing slings. Since 1988 it has assembled Gunnebo Grade 8 chain slings.
