Halma, the Amersham-based FTSE 100 global group of life-saving technology companies, announced it has acquired Bradford-based Thermocable (Flexible Elements) Ltd for its safety sector fire detection company, Apollo Fire Detectors Limited (Apollo).

Thermocable is a leading developer and manufacturer of Linear Heat Detectors (LHDs).

LHDs are temperature sensitive cables, installed in areas at risk of overheating and fire, which trigger an alert when they detect a change of temperature.

“Thermocable’s specialist detection technologies further expand the range of devices Apollo offers in the commercial and industrial fire detection markets,” said Halma.

“The initial consideration for Thermocable is £22m, on a cash- and debt-free basis, which will be funded from Halma’s existing facilities.

“Thermocable’s unaudited revenue for the 12 months to 31 March 2022 was £6.3m, with Return on Sales substantially above the upper end of Halma’s target range of 18-22%.”

Halma CEO Andrew Williams said: “Thermocable’s specialist technologies will further enhance Apollo’s existing strengths in fire detection and alarm systems for industrial and commercial customers.

“They will enable Apollo to address a greater range of customer needs in niche applications for a variety of sectors such as urban infrastructure and transportation, logistics, natural resources and emerging applications in renewable power generation.”

Apollo MD David Bulley said: “Our long-term growth is driven by increasing urbanisation, population growth and safety regulation.

“With the acquisition of Thermocable, we will serve a greater range of customer needs globally while offering an extra layer of protection to help extinguish fires at the source before they cause serious harm.

“Its technologies are highly aligned with Apollo’s purpose to protect people and their environment.”