New managing director at Hi-line Industries

Expansion and sales growth point to bright future for UK-based compressed-air equipment specialist

HI-LINE Industries, a UK-based leader in the design, manufacture, and installation of energy-efficient compressed-air purification equipment, have appointed Steve Smith as their new managing director.

Replacing Mike Thurlow, who has retired, Mr Smith (pictured) is part of the company’s original team, having joined as marketing director in 2000 when the business began trading. He has purchased Mr Thurlow’s 50% share of the business and is now making plans to drive even greater success at Hi-line.

At the year-ended 31 July 2022, Hi-line showed 27% growth in like-for-like sales, underpinned by a record year for the company’s N2 nitrogen generator systems and HPSA desiccant dryers, both of which have features and functions that are said to provide notable market differentiation. 

Keeping pace with growing order levels is driving expansion at Hi-line’s Burton-upon-Trent headquarters and production facility. A new building extension is being designed, but such is current demand that the company has recently erected two temporary warehouse buildings to hold the additional materials required for dryer builds. Several six-figure projects are due for completion before year end.

‘This company has come a long when since it began in 2000, but we can achieve even more,’ said Mr Smith. ‘We have new teams in the warehouse and service departments, which will help support our future growth in terms of both physical size and revenue.

‘Despite our ambitions, however, the company’s founding principles will not change. Our experienced and qualified engineers will continue designing and building to the highest standards. We have great confidence in our high-quality workmanship and materials, which is reflected in our five-year warranty. I’m very excited to spearhead our ongoing development in the coming years.’

Hi-line are ISO9001 certified and a member of the British Compressed Air Society. Their broad range of energy-efficient compressed-air equipment includes air dryers, nitrogen and oxygen generators, filtration equipment, condensate management/drains, and service kits.