A Northumberland lighting specialist has snapped up a Finnish firm to boost its reach across Europe. Raytec Ltd, a leader in LED lighting for security and safety critical applications, has acquired Atexor Oy, an Espoo based specialist in portable lighting.
The move creates an enlarged group with 117 employees, with Atexor’s 21 staff joining Raytec’s 96-strong workforce. Bosses at Ashington-based Raytec said the strategic acquisition broadens its product portfolio, while also reinforcing its commitment to delivering high performance lighting for any hazardous location. The deal value has not been disclosed.
Launched 20 years ago, Raytec manufactures specialist LED lighting products designed for safety and security critical applications. It has four main markets including hazardous area lighting, lighting for video surveillance; lighting for the transport sector and heavy industrial lighting.
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It delivers its products to key markets through a network of distribution partners, directly with OEM customers and to the Americas through its 100% owned subsidiary, Raytec Systems Inc. Its most recent accounts, covering 2024, highlight how exports account for 55% of sales with the main export markets being Europe, the Middle East, America, Oceania and the Far East.
The firm – which posted turnover of £17.3m and operating profit of £2.8m in 2024 – is aiming to build a global footprint, and managing director David Lambert says the Atexor deal will strengthen its position.
He said the acquisition enables Raytec to expand its footprint in the EU and accelerate growth in the hazardous area lighting sector. He added that customers will benefit from the combined expertise, enhanced R&D capability and an expanded service and support network.
Mr Lambert said: “Atexor’s reputation for technical excellence and quality perfectly complements Raytec’s own commitment to innovation in illumination. Bringing Atexor into the Raytec family strengthens our market position and allows us to serve our customers with a broader portfolio of hazardous area lighting to suit any hazardous area requirement”.
Founded in 1983, Atexor Oy is a well-established manufacturer known for its robust, portable and temporary lighting systems designed for demanding, hazardous area applications. Its products are trusted across industries including oil and gas, petrochemical and manufacturing. Atexor Oy will continue to operate as an independent company and brand.
Jukka Viitasalo, managing director of Atexor Oy, added: “The sale marks an important step for Atexor Oy, opening new opportunities for continued development under the new ownership. We look forward to building on our strong foundation and continuing to serve our customers with the same commitment and quality.”