North East engineering company JK Lifting Equipment is celebrating the opening of its new specialist marine base at Port of Blyth and the launch of a new industrial arm.
The company, originally named John Kesson Lifting, has grown from strength to strength since its buy-out in 2019 by managing director James Bright. In its inaugural year, JK Lifting doubled its turnover and has since seen strong growth in the marine and renewables sectors.
Sited on the banks of the River Tyne, the firm, headquartered on Walker Road, Newcastle, is recognised for its engineering excellence, innovative solutions and collaborative working relationships. It supports many of the region’s most significant construction, manufacturing, engineering, marine, renewable and offshore firms - including Express Engineering and Global Marine - helping them lift large and complex goods. JK Lifting also carries out inspections to ensure equipment is legally safe and compliant.
JK Lifting’s new 240 square metre unit at the Port of Blyth is the firm's second base and the main headquarters for the new arm of the business - JK Industrial Services. Alongside its main lifting, testing and inspection services its industrial arm will be a one stop shop for
businesses within the Port and visiting vessels. The unit will offer everything to fulfil their offshore and marine needs from Lifting Gear and PPE to small tool sales and hire.
Commenting on joining the Port of Blyth, managing director James Bright, said: “I invested in the business because I saw the potential and an opportunity to grow what John developed over nearly four decades. Opening a second base at Port of Blyth is part of the company’s growth trajectory and I am proud to have realised this goal with John still a key member of the team.
“We have a strong relationship with the Port of Blyth through supporting the region's renewable and marine supply chain. When the opportunity to join the Port’s on site supply chain came-up we knew it was the perfect base for the new arm of the business. JK Lifting Industrial Services is a one stop shop for all of the port’s and visiting vessels offshore and marine needs. We will also offer our full range of JK Lifting services including testing and inspection, design and manufacture, product sale and hire as well as contract lifting and moving.
“We are excited for the future. With the Port’s continued growth as one of the UK’s leading offshore energy support bases and continued regional investment in the renewable sector, it’s a privilege to be part of Blyth’s vision for the future. We are dedicated to seeing the region’s green revolution to fruition.”
JK Lifting Industrial is exclusive to the Port of Blyth and is part of the company’s plans to build and expand following another strong year.
James Brown, Port of Blyth, Customer Services Manager, said: “We’re delighted to welcome JK Lifting to the Port of Blyth at an exciting time of growth for the company. They have an excellent reputation and we’re highly confident that James and the team will fit in seamlessly with the supply chain located at the Port serving the offshore energy and renewables sector that now numbers more than fifty companies.”