AESSEAL®, the homogeneous mechanical seal manufacturer, is celebrating its 40th anniversary, with a series of events and a promise to continue investing and innovating.
The multi award-winning, Rotherham-based company which designs and makes mechanical seals and support systems for a wide range of global industries including oil and gas, food, water, mining and pharmaceuticals, has grown from a small distribution business based on Attercliffe Road, Sheffield to a £180m+ turnover business employing more than 1,800 people across the world.
Under founder and managing director Chris Rea, the company has recorded near constant growth over the four decades, investing in wide-ranging innovation including the development of its modular range of seals and processes that ensures customers receive the same product no matter where they are in the world. In addition, the business has been lauded for its community work, extensive apprenticeship programme and education outreach – which runs from primary schools right through to doctorate level.
The 40th-anniversary celebrations kick off with a gala dinner at Sheffield City Hall where staff and special guests will gather to mark the company’s achievements, and thank all their employees for their continued support.
Chris Rea purchased Aurora Engineers Supplies in 1979, as a small distributor of mechanical seals, with ten employees and an annual turnover of £400,000.
By 1983 AESSEAL® built its first manufacturing site on Mangham Road, Rotherham. Over the following years, the mechanical seal range expanded, turnover grew to £2M and the company received the first of its 13 Queen’s Awards. Export sales grew, overseas offices were opened, and turnover increased year on year.