Gardner Aerospace acquires 3D printing company for new tech centre

Gardner Aerospace has announced the acquisition of FDM Digital Solutions (FDM). Formed in 2012 by Graeme Bond, Burnley-based FDM is at the forefront of 3D printing and has grown to become one of the UK’s leading polymer additive layer manufacturers.

FDM’s business model of customer collaboration and innovative design solutions, aligned with extensive manufacturing capability, has proven to be successful in the automotive, medical, motorsport, F1 and aerospace industries.

Going forward, the business will become part of the Gardner Technology Centre, a newly created business unit focused on advanced technology, innovative solutions and research and development.

Dominic Cartwright, chief executive officer at Gardner Aerospace, said: “Gardner Aerospace is breaking new ground in terms of technology. The acquisition of FDM and the creation of our new Technology Centre business unit provides us with the perfect opportunity to expand our technical knowledge, R&D capability and product offering, and aligns us with our customers’ growing expectations on innovative solutions, continuous improvement and cost competitiveness.

“The role of 3D printing within manufacturing is constantly expanding and this newly acquired additive layer manufacturing capability complements Gardner’s long-standing capabilities as a producer of metallic detailed parts and sub-assemblies.”

BHW Solicitors provided legal advice to Gardner Aerospace through the acquisition process.

Gardner Aerospace serves key aerospace OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers including Airbus, Gulfstream, Bombardier, Embraer, Rolls-Royce, GKN, Collins Aerospace and Safran. By combining a broad scope of technologies, first-class knowledge of manufacturing processes and an investment in people, Gardner Aerospace has emerged as a highly competitive player in the global aerospace industry, powering the critical production lines of its customers.

www.gardner-aerospace.com