Strategic partnership creates synergies for innovative complete solutions in Europe and the USA
GKD – Gebr. Kufferath AG, the German global market leader for technical mesh solutions, and KnitMesh Technologies, the leading international UK-based manufacturer of knitted wire mesh solutions, have entered into a strategic partnership. The aim of the cooperation is to combine the strengths of both companies in order to offer innovative and integrated solutions for the future markets of hydrogen (H₂) and mobility.
Customers of both companies will benefit from an expanded product portfolio and an
optimized value chain. The cooperation will initially focus on Europe and the USA.
Complete solutions for the hydrogen industry The advantages of the partnership can be seen for example in applications that are required in hydrogen production, particularly in alkaline electrolysis. Technical meshes from GKD for electrodes and knitted wire mesh from KnitMesh Technologies as elastic elements can thus be offered as a complete solution. Biploar plates and full electrolyser cell assemblies are also offered by the new partnership.
New impulses for the mobility sector The cooperation also offers considerable prospects in the mobility sector, which both companies already serve with numerous solutions: Vehicle components with all forms of mesh elements that are optimized with knitted wire mesh and vice versa open up new potential for suppliers and manufacturers. As a first step, KnitMesh Technologies and GKD will expand their product portfolios to include the cooperation partner’s solutions.
Strategic advantages for both partners Dirk Leibel, Key Market Manager – Energy and Mobility, GKD Group: “Both companies can contribute their respective strengths to the cooperation: GKD as an expert in wire mesh and technological weaving solutions, KnitMesh as a leading supplier of knitted wire mesh. We
have different areas of expertise in the processing of wire – we bring them together. As a complete solution provider, we make it easier for our customers and can serve their requirements even better.“
Peter Evans, Managing Director, KnitMesh Technologies: “Through our strategic partnership with GKD, we are thrilled to combine the capabilities of KnitMesh Technologies as the leading knitted wire mesh manufacturer with GKD’s position as the leading woven wire mesh manufacturer. This collaboration will deliver a comprehensive line of knitted and woven wire mesh products, including multi component assemblies, setting a new standard for our industry. Our teams share a commitment to excellence, and we are confident that our customers will benefit greatly from our combined expertise and capabilities.”
In addition to the technological collaboration, close cooperation in customer support and market development is also planned. The sales staff of both companies will be intensively prepared for the expanded product solutions through specialized training programs. The first public appearance of the new partnership will be at the World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam from May 20 to 22, 2025. There, GKD und KnitMesh will present their combined expertise in hydrogen technology and showcase their innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
