Powys-based RM Group has achieved significant success in the US market, securing a series of deals and contracts with support from the Welsh Government. The company’s recent expansion includes the establishment of its first American office in Delaware.
Founded over 20 years ago in Newtown, RM Group specializes in designing and building manual and automated machinery for processing and packaging across various sectors such as food and drink, construction, energy, utilities, and general industry. Originally a small packaging business focused on animal feed, RM Group now exports to over 15 countries, including Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, and Iraq.
In early 2022, RM Group responded to increasing US inquiries by opening its Delaware office. This strategic move has proven successful, leading to numerous deals in states such as Delaware, Illinois, Arkansas, and Utah. Notably, the company secured a significant order for an automated bagging system from an industrial salt production company in Florida.
Additionally, RM Group has signed a deal with a US automation company, which now sells RM Group equipment under its own branding across the Utah belt. This partnership is projected to be worth up to £10 million over the next five years.
A noteworthy project in Chicago involves the development of a £750,000 mobile packing plant made from shipping containers, creating a modular factory for Midwest Salt, a client in the industrial salt sector.
Kevin Humphreys, RM Group’s export manager, emphasized the importance of international markets to the company’s growth. “Our ongoing success in the US has further underlined the value of exporting to our growth, with our international sales now representing over 20% of our trade and growing year on year,” Humphreys said. He highlighted that international markets provide more opportunities and better profitability compared to the highly competitive and cost-driven UK market.
Beyond the US, RM Group is expanding its presence in Australia. Supported by an Overseas Business Development Visit grant from the Welsh Government, company representatives recently attended APPEX – Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo in Melbourne. The visit facilitated meetings with new in-market partners and contacts, bolstering RM Group’s plans to enter the Australian market, where the company is close to signing several new deals.
Jeremy Miles, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy, and Welsh Language, praised RM Group’s export achievements. “The export success of RM Group is a fantastic example of how exporting can support company growth. I am extremely pleased that Welsh Government support, delivered as part of our Export Action Plan, has contributed to their success in global markets,” Miles said.
With its strategic expansions and government support, RM Group continues to grow its international footprint, demonstrating the significant impact of exporting on business development.