Helmet Integrated Systems sold to Gentex Corporation

Helmet Integrated Systems Ltd (HISL) has been acquired by USA-based Gentex Corporation, a global leader in integrated helmet systems for defence and security personnel. The transaction was managed for HISL by BCMS.

HISL is an established provider of protective helmets, communications equipment and respiratory systems for civil, defence, security and industrial personnel. At the time of the transaction, HISL employed approximately 200 people with two UK facilities, in Letchworth Garden City and Stranraer, Scotland. Its subsidiary, Interactive Safety Products, Inc., is located in Huntsville, North Carolina.

“BCMS generated significant global interest” – Jan Korny, HISL

HISL manufactures market-leading brands, such as the Alpha helmet range and Pureflo respiratory products, as well as being a key supplier to defence and military organisations both in the UK and USA, including the Ministry of Defence and the US Air Force. The company was engaged as a key supplier on the Joint Strike Fighter F-35 aircraft programme.

Deal commentary

HISL will operate as a UK subsidiary of Gentex Corporation, which is headquartered in Carbondale, Pennsylvania. Gentex Corporation and HISL will combine their world-class products, technologies, and manufacturing resources to deliver customers one of the most advanced, comprehensive lines of helmet, respiratory and communication systems in the global defence and security market.

Jan Korny, Group Managing Director of HISL, said: “BCMS provided professional expertise in representing the business profile of HISL, including products, brands, markets, financial results and forecasts in the information memorandum, and circulated it internationally generating significant global interest. BCMS then helped in selecting the preferred bidder, negotiating and managing the acquisition process to a satisfactory conclusion and delivering a fair competitive price for the business.”