MKM makes move into heat pump market

ACQUISITION: Rob Barnes, MKM's business development director, and Tony Evanson, owner of Oceanair

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

Hull-based builders’ merchant MKM is making a move into the heat pump market.

MKM has bought specialist HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) distributor Oceanair.

Established in 2002, Oceanair has built a reputation as a distributor for market leading brands Daikin, Fujitsu and Panasonic, operating from locations in Mansfield and Crawley.

Kate Tinsley, CEO of MKM, said: “This is an interesting acquisition for MKM and enables us to expand into further emerging marketplaces.

“Oceanair is a great company with very talented people. I’m really excited about our growth plans.”

Oceanair will continue its operations under its existing name, ensuring continuity for customers and suppliers.

Tony Evanson, owner of Oceanair, will remain involved in the business for the foreseeable future, providing support during the transition. 

He emphasised the importance of finding the right home for the business and expressed pride in its growth over the years.

“I’m incredibly proud to see the business grow over the years and have developed some fantastic relationships with staff, customers, and suppliers,” he said.

“I have thought long and hard about selling the business and was adamant it needed to go to the right home.

“I’m very pleased to be around the business to support the MKM team and look forward to seeing Oceanair grow under its new ownership”.

Rob Barnes, MKM’s business development director, said: “This acquisition fits perfectly with MKM’s plans for expansion, allowing us to branch out further into the HVAC industry.

“Continuing to work closely with the current Oceanair team guarantees a seamless transition. Customers and suppliers can expect business as usual.

“Oceanashp.co.uk, part of Oceanair, specialises in heating and concentrates on designing, supplying, commissioning and supporting air-to-water heat pumps.

“Their Heat Pump Training Academy conducts courses on design and installation and has recently earned recognition as a Centre of Excellence by Panasonic.

“This fits perfectly with our commitment of offering more sustainable options to customers.”

With a turnover of circa £1 billion, MKM is a prominent player in the UK’s building and construction industry, standing out as the leading independent builders’ merchant.

Established in 1995, the company has rapidly expanded its footprint with branches strategically located across England, Scotland, and Wales.