Group Rhodes, a Wakefield-based machinery manufacturer serving the metalforming, composites, and heavy ceramic sectors, has completed the acquisition of BJD Crushers Limited, based in Barnsley. BJD Crushers specializes in manufacturing size reduction machinery, offering a wide range of material processing equipment and high-capacity crushers designed to control product size.
This acquisition aligns with Group Rhodes’ strategic objective to bolster its materials handling division, complementing its existing businesses, Craven Fawcett and Hallamshire Engineering Services. Craven Fawcett and Hallamshire Engineering Services manufacture machinery and spare parts for the heavy clay and materials handling sectors.
BJD Crushers also has a robust aftermarket for double roll crushers and primary reduction machinery, with a focus on export sales in sectors ranging from recycling to aggregates.
Mark Ridgway OBE DL, CEO of Group Rhodes, emphasized the strategic importance of this acquisition, stating, “This is an important acquisition which forms part of a group strategy to strengthen our materials handling division to operate alongside our major metalforming and heavy ceramic operations. BJD is a strong strategic fit for us, and the strengths of the combined operation will drive significant value for customers. It will help further develop our vision to be a major player in the UK material handling sector. We have an exciting future ahead of us.”
As a result of the acquisition, Group Rhodes expects to create at least one role shortly, the position of business development manager, and anticipates adding nine more jobs over the next two years.
Peter Mills, managing director of BJD Crushers, will serve as a consultant to Group Rhodes during the transition period. He expressed confidence in the future of the business under Group Rhodes’ ownership, saying, “BJD has a great reputation within the materials handling market, and I’m certain that the business will continue to go from strength to strength under Group Rhodes’ ownership.”
BJD Crushers can trace its origins back to 1897 and was formerly known as British Jeffrey Diamond. The company relocated to Barnsley in 2001. It will continue to operate from its Barnsley headquarters until the end of 2023, after which its operations will transfer to Group Rhodes’ purpose-built factory in Calder Vale, Wakefield. Group Rhodes plans to make additional investments and recruit personnel to support BJD Crushers’ operations and strengthen Hallamshire Engineering’s synergistic material handling activities.
Group Rhodes actively manufactures and markets over 50 ranges of machinery from its Wakefield facilities, serving both UK and global markets. The company specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing bespoke equipment, providing complete turnkey solutions.
Rhodes is approaching its 200th anniversary, reflecting its dedication to a traditional yet dynamic manufacturing environment and nurturing a skilled workforce.