HME Technology, a leading manufacturer and installer of design and technology equipment to study engineering, has won its first contract in Saudi Arabia.
The deal is worth £140,000 to the Bromsgrove-based business, which specialises in supplying engineering equipment to schools and other educational establishments.
And Sajid Javid, Conservative MP for Bromsgrove, The Secretary of State for Culture, media and Sport was there to hail the departure of the final consignment, as staff gathered round to watch the crate being loaded onto the lorry for the first stage of its long journey.
The package is for ‘The World Academy’ at King AbdullahEconomic City near Jeddah, which is currently in the process of opening.
The advanced technology mixed with traditional machines will allow students to train with CNC machines including a milling machine for metals and a universal high spec router that can machine in wood, plastics and light aluminium. Therefore this exposes students to an extensive range of skills and disciplines for their chosen career paths.
The work has come via main contractor EMAAR the leading construction companies in KSA.
“It is a very sizeable order for HME,” said director Martyn Hale. “Breaking into Saudi Arabia is a major boost for our business. This has been very much a team effort.
“We hope that, given the quality of our equipment and the strong reputation we have built up in educational circles, we can build on this and win more work there.”
Mr Javid said: “This Government has been doing everything it can to support our exporters and it is wonderful to see such a go-ahead company as HME Technology at the forefront.
“I would urge other local firms to consider the possibilities of carving out a niche in markets abroad. You have to work at it but there are people who will help like UK Trade & Investment and UK Export Finance. HME Technology should be proud of its achievement.”
The firm has plans to attend a major exhibition in Saudi Arabia in early November.
HME has previously worked in Abu Dhabi and recently in Dubai.
The World Academy is a part of the GEMS Education global network of award winning schools. With over 55 years of experience GEMS Education provides high quality education to over 140, 000 students, representing over 173 nationalities, around the world. GEMS Schools offer 6 different curricula to students from Foundation Stages to Year 13.