Toolcraft and Mitchell & Cheesman merge for defence

Two South Australian defence suppliers are joining forces to offer a comprehensive suite of integrated design and engineering services for a range of customers, including defence.

Complex mechanical system integration specialist Toolcraft Australia and flexible manufacturing solutions provider Mitchell & Cheesman have merged to deliver significantly expanded advanced manufacturing and technology development capabilities.

Established in 1957, Mitchell & Cheesman brings an extensive range of design, engineering and manufacturing services for precision tooling, jigs and fixtures, as well as capabilities in metal component pressing, fabrication and surface finishing.

Toolcraft general manager of business Greg Stevens said the merger would bolster the company’s competitiveness and efficiency by reducing lead times and boosting production output, making the company more attractive to defence customers.

Stevens said: “The merger significantly enhances our capability to deliver turnkey solutions in the mechanical defence systems space.

“Together, we will provide advanced design and engineering expertise to enhance our precision machining, welding and powder coating capabilities.”

With a combined workforce ‘approaching triple figures’ the companies believe the merger brings the scale to compete for bigger projects and improve the competitiveness of bids.

Future managing director of the new group Bill Sardelis said the merger would help grow revenue by 20 to 30 per cent annually through the next decade.

Picture: Defence SA

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