Alexander Battery Technologies - Powered to Grow BF 121

ALEXANDER BATTERY TECHNOLOGIES,

THE

DESIGNER

AND MANUFACTURER OF CUSTOMISED BATTERY PRODUCTS, HAS FURTHER BOOSTED ITS FOOTING, TO MEET RISING DEMAND FROM EXISTING AND NEW SECTORS.

POWERED TO GROW

PROJECT MANAGED BY: LIAM PYWELL

Alexander Battery Technologies, the specialist in customisable lithium-ion and NiMH battery packs and chargers, has achieved yet another highly successful year, backed by substantial investment in both people and capacities as demand for environmentally friendly solutions across all sectors increases.

The company has earned a formidable reputation not only for its outstanding battery products but also for supporting its customers with critical related services such as supply-chain resilience and buffer stock programmes, endof-life management, and rapid prototyping.

ABT flexibility and speed of response were evident during the pandemic, when its revenue increased tenfold through its work for the medical sector, and production expanded successfully from a single factory to two additional sites within a period of three months.

We interviewed CEO Mark Rutherford over a year ago when ABT was enjoying steep growth. In 2023, this trajectory continued as the company was able to win more customers and ventured into new markets.

can always count on in the long term.”

“We have demonstrated that we have the facilities, we have the professionalism, we have the staff. I believe this is what makes us stand out,” he says. “We are also a forward-thinking business, we are pro-active, not reactive. That also gives us a competitive edge.”

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

This proactive attitude has driven investment in both technology and people. Earlier this year, ABT became the first company in the world to install an EV Flex laser welder underlining its commitment to leadingedge production technology, making the company the most technologically sophisticated manufacturer of embedded battery packs on a global scale.

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Mark Rutherford, CEO, Alexander Battery Technologies.

“Growth has always been on our agenda,” says Rutherford. “In an environment where batteries are a growing topic, it’s crucial to persuade customers that we have the ability to scale up as a reliable supplier they

The EV Flex laser welder, an IPG Photonics product, uses machine vision technology and configurable optics to produce micrometre-accurate welds between the terminals on a battery cell and busbar. This will enable ABT to achieve quality

DATUM ALLOYS

POWERING THE FUTURE OF BATTERY PACK MANUFACTURING

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the demand for efficient and reliable energy storage solutions has never been greater. At Datum Alloys, we stand at the forefront of this revolution, empowering battery pack manufacturers worldwide with our cutting-edge products and unparalleled support.

Our commitment to excellence is evident in our comprehensive range of standard and bespoke battery connectors, strips, and tags. Whether it’s bespoke laser-cut parts for R&D, pre-production to low volume or high-volume stamped parts for mass production, Datum Alloys delivers quality without compromise.

One of our esteemed partners, Alexander Technologies, stands as a testament to the trust and reliability we offer. For years, we have supported their business with our high-quality battery connectors, contributing to their success and growth in the industry. As we continue to collaborate, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

In an era where innovation is key, Datum Alloys remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of possibility. By providing superior products and unwavering support to battery pack manufacturers globally, we are not just meeting the demands of today but also shaping the future of tomorrows energy storage. With a focus on precision engineering and unmatched expertise, Datum Alloys is poised to lead the charge in powering the next generation of technological advancements. Join us as we redefine the possibilities of battery pack manufacturing and drive the world towards a brighter, more sustainable future. www.datumalloys.com

ROMARK

Labelling is not just our business – it’s our passion. Our relationship with Alexander Technology has allowed RoMark to deliver unparalleled, durable labelling solutions tailored to their exacting needs.

Our UL-approved labels boast heat resistance and exceptional durability, ensuring optimum performance for the next generation of Alexander products. Whether it’s domed labels, security tags, data-plate labels, serial numbers, or nameplate labels for pumps, valves, or motors, RoMark stands ready with the capacity and expertise to cater to labelling needs across diverse sectors including industrial, automotive, aerospace, and construction.

With over 50 different label types designed exclusively for Alexander, our collaboration underscores the depth of the manufacturing expertise shared between our companies. These products, distributed globally for a variety of applications, help show our collective commitment to quality and performance. Even in challenging 969 Haz-Loc environments, our bespoke materials get the job done, resistant to a wide array of solvents and substances, ensuring permanence in thermal printing.

Environmental considerations are ingrained in our business ethos. From minimizing wastage in manufacturing to utilizing recycled packaging and employing battery-operated tooling where feasible, RoMark prioritizes sustainability without compromising product quality.

Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate further collaboration with Alexander, building upon our successful relationship so far. Together, we hope to create even more innovative labelling solutions, driving mutual success in our respective industries. www.romark-labels.com

standards matching those specified by premium electric vehicle manufacturers.

“The products and the sectors that we want to break into require us to have that level of machinery, and this state-ofthe-art technology will further increase our competitiveness,” says Rutherford. “We could get much cheaper technology, but we plan for the future. The EV Flex can deal with different types of welding applications for different sectors, so we won’t have to keep reinvesting in more machines.”

The new laser machine is only part of ABT asset expansion. The company last year opened its brand-new Battery Technology Centre in Peterlee, which includes 12 specialist state-of-the-art R&D labs capable to support new developments of up to 800V and over 100kWh when needed. The 1,850m2 centre complements the company’s existing facilities, which include a battery assembly unit, a large warehouse for holding buffer stocks of components for custom packs, a design engineering laboratory, and staff training suites.

Rutherford explains that the Battery Technology Centre, worth £1.5 million, will add advanced engineering and

service capabilities as the company begins its first projects developing and prototyping for e-mobility customers.

“The Centre provides us with additional manufacturing space, which will allow us to manufacture large, high-voltage battery packs, and if needed we could ramp up production from several hundred to thousands.”

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

Rutherford points out that the speed at which the battery market is developing creates a significant skills gap, particularly in electronics engineering. To this end, ABT has expanded its apprenticeship programme with a view to having at least one apprentice in each department

by the end of the year. “We are determined to support young people and show them the great opportunities that manufacturing offers.”

“By offering permanent employment opportunities post-apprenticeship, we are not only investing in the professional development of young, local people but also ensuring a sustainable talent pipeline for the future,” he says. “This is very important for me personally. When I was at school, no one told me that I could have a great career in manufacturing and become a CEO. I want schools and young people to know that manufacturing is an attractive option.”

“I WANT SCHOOLS AND YOUNG PEOPLE TO KNOW THAT MANUFACTURING IS AN ATTRACTIVE OPTION.”

UK BASED SHRINK SLEEVE LTD

YOUR PARTNER IN HEAT SHRINK PLASTIC SOLUTIONS WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

At Shrink Sleeve Ltd, we are more than just a company, we are a family. As a family run business, we bring a unique blend of tradition, passion, and dedication to every aspect of our operations, especially in the realm of heat shrink plastic solutions. Established in 1988, we specialise in the supply of high quality, competitively priced, industry standard heat-shrink products.

What sets us apart? It’s our personal approach to business. You are not just another client – you’re part of our extended family. We take the time to understand your needs and with continual investment and in addition to the extensive product range, we at Shrink Sleeve Ltd offer our customers bespoke in-house services with precision cutting, printing and perforation, all produced to each customers own specifications from smaller quantities to large volume production.

With decades of experience under our belts, we provide a service to multiple markets and industries globally such as the electronic, engineering, automotive and defence industries to name a few. We understand the importance of sustainability and we prioritise packaging solutions that minimise environmental impact.

What truly drives us is our commitment to excellence and integrity – with honesty, transparency and a genuine desire to exceed expectations. That is why our clients trust us time and time again to deliver top quality material, the best service and deliver excellence to all in order to reduce manufacturing costs and improve productivity.

www.shrinksleeve.com

He further affirms that ABT culture, based on honesty and transparency, is a reflection of the company’s striving to ensure that staff feels valued and supported on their career path. The company is committed to being an

equal opportunity employer and diversity is embedded in its culture. Unusual for the heavily male dominated UK manufacturing sector, about 50% of ABT employees are women across all levels of the business.

“My business partner and CFO Claire Brymer is herself a great example of a success story. She started in ABT as an apprentice 25 years ago at the age of 16 and moved all the way up to becoming a co-owner and a board member,” considers Rutherford.

THE RIGHT PARTNERSHIP

Given its successful development over the last few years, the company has recently expanded its sales & marketing team from 3 to 14 people, of which 3 employees are in DACH. A sales office has been established in Frankfurt, Germany, currently employing four people but Rutherford explains that the premises are large enough to increase staff numbers to 35 if demand grows as expected. Potential manufacturing facility in Europe is also in the pipeline in the longer term.

“Being close to our European customers will not only improve relationships but also reduce our environmental footprint. As the battery packs are getting bigger and heavier, shortening the shipping distance will have an impact. Promoting our green practices with regard to the product lifecycle is an important factor as we strive to become carbon-neutral by 2030.”

In concluding, he affirms that ABT is ready to meet new requirements from both existing and new customers, looking at new sectors such as e-motorbikes, off-road, commercial, and marine vehicles as well as aviation. However, it is not just about driving profits,” he says. “It is about selecting the right partner and establishing a relationship on a long-term basis.”