History
Brand
Heritage
Wescom Group is a prominent manufacturer of survival solutions, with a rich corporate history shaped by iconic brands such as Pains Wessex, Comet, Oroquieta, Wescom Defence, sMRT, Ketech Defence and ANP Pharma. With a legacy of over 150 years in maritime safety innovation, the Pains Wessex, Comet, and Oroquieta brands have consistently set industry standards. Wescom Defence, a consolidation of Comet, Ketech Defence and PW Defence (formerly Haley and Weller), inherits expertise dating back to the 1930s. The concept of sMRT and the Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) originated in 1960 after the founder survived being thrown overboard in the South Pacific. Subsequently, a prototype of the first PLB was produced in 1975 for the Financial Times Clipper race. Meanwhile, ANP Pharma has evolved into a rapidly growing supplier of complete marine medical solutions globally, expanding from its roots in London in 2008 to encompass B2B wholesale pharmaceutical supply since 2011.
Group
History
In 2020, Sun European Partners, LLP, acquired Wescom Signal & Rescue, marking a strategic move towards long-term investment and growth, both organically and through acquisitions. Subsequent acquisitions of PW Defence Ltd in 2021, MRT in 2022, ANP Pharma in 2023 and Ketech Defence and eFlare in 2024 underscore the company’s steadfast commitment to excellence and safety, reinforcing its position as a frontrunner in the maritime and defence sectors.
Wescom Group’s manufacturing proficiency is centred in four strategic locations: the original Comet factory in Bremerhaven in Germany, Draycott in Derbyshire, Anlaby in Hull and Pamplona, Spain. Employing cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, Wescom Group sustains market leadership through products featuring advanced technology, services, and innovative design. Adhering to the ISO 9001 standard ensures global approvals and manufacturing excellence.
The amalgamation of these leading brands, coupled with Wescom Group’s initiation of manufacturing its own emergency rations and water in 2024, firmly places Wescom Group at the forefront of the survival solutions manufacture and supply industry.
