Founded in 2016 as part of the DMM Wales group, Bangor-based Helix Operations has established itself as a leading manufacturer of specialist height safety equipment to help customers ascend, descend and conduct rescues when working at height.
The company has developed a comprehensive suite of products that are used by search and rescue teams, national defence departments and specialist police units to conduct complex vertical access operations.
Its portfolio includes bespoke climbing harnesses, composite ladders, motorised ascenders and grappling-hook launchers, alongside bespoke training courses and maintenance delivered by former operational specialists.
Growth in International Market
Although Helix Operations began supplying customers solely in the UK, a good reputation within the sector at home opened the door to international opportunities. Exports now account for 65% of the company’s turnover with Helix’s equipment being used in 51 countries, spanning Europe, North America, Latin America, the Middle East, Australia and Scandinavia.
International sales have gone from strength to strength over the years, with Helix securing a string of major overseas export contracts including five multi-year agreements with three European countries worth a combined €13 million - a result of years of relationship building in the market.
Helix Operations has also strengthened its presence landing a large order in the Middle East. The deal was a direct result of Helix’s attendance at an international trade exhibition in Dubai, supported by the Welsh Government, where the company had the opportunity to showcase its equipment directly to users.
The company is on track to almost double its turnover this year to £8 million, driven largely by rising demand from overseas customers.
Helix Operations’ exporting success has been supported by the Welsh Government, which has helped it attend trade visits, enabling it to meet prospective customers and increase its visibility in key markets. Tailored in-market advice from International Trade Advisors has also helped the business expand into new territories and accelerate growth.
Helix Operations now employs 17 staff across its Bangor headquarters and training facility in Abergele, with the DMM Wales group employing another 175 staff at the factory in Llanberis.
With rising interest from Scandinavia, Southeast Asia and the United States, the company hopes to see strong growth continue over the next two years. With £11 million of expected export orders already forecast for 2026, Helix anticipates continued strong growth over the next two years.
Simon Marsh, Managing Director at Helix Operations, said:
“Exporting is our business right now. Once end users see what they can do with our equipment, systems and training, it massively increases the chances of them wanting to work with us. The ability to travel to target markets, to demonstrate our kit and build trust face-to-face, has been fundamental to our international growth.
“These latest contracts in Europe reflect years of work developing relationships, listening to end users and refining our products to meet their needs. We’re incredibly proud that organisations across the world trust equipment made here in Wales to keep their operators safe at height.
“Welsh Government support, including funding to help us attend market visits and trade shows, has been vital in enabling the team to meet decision-makers, conduct demonstrations and build relationships in key territories.”