Fordhouse, a United Kingdom private equity-backed investment group, has acquired Automatic Industrial Machines Ltd, a Somerset-based company supplying Tier 1 aerospace and defence programmes, in a platform investment to support a wider UK consolidation strategy, according to Insider Media.

The acquisition provides Fordhouse with an established entry point into the precision engineering market, combining AIM's highly automated production capability with long-standing relationships across aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing.

Headquartered in Clevedon, AIM provides high-precision components into demanding environments, supported by ISO 9001 and AS9100 accreditation and long-term supply relationships with customers including Airbus, BAE Systems and GKN Aerospace. The business achieved 102 per cent growth between 2020 and 2024.

The deal marks the first step in Fordhouse's buy-and-build strategy in the sector. Further acquisitions are expected as it looks to build a broader engineering group.

Nicholas Ashcroft of Fordhouse said: "We believe in the revitalisation of British industry and are excited to build a high-growth, dynamic advanced engineering group around AIM. With a deep family-run legacy, AIM is a well-invested business with strong technical competence and an impressive customer set."

Rob Kendall, former owner of AIM, said: "It was important to find the right home for the business. Fordhouse and Patrick understand what makes AIM special and have a clear plan to build on it. I am pleased to stay involved, remain invested in AIM's future, continue working closely with customers and support the next phase of growth, while safeguarding the legacy."

Explore comprehensive details on the acquisition and consolidation strategy in the full story.