Hampson
About Us
CEO Statement
MARKETS
Commercial aerospace markets are in the early phases of what we expect will be a strong cyclical upswing that should last for at least several years. Both Boeing and Airbus have announced progressive increases in planned product rates across almost all major programmes covering the period out to 2013.
Over the medium term, we expect the regional (100-180 seat) jet market to expand, assisted by the availability of new, more fuel efficient engine technologies. These new technologies will power not only Bombardier’s new C-Series, but also important new programmes from MHI (Japan), Comac (China), Superjet International & Irkut (Russia) the Airbus A320 NEO and the recently announced B737 MAX, which are all presently in the design, development or initial certification and delivery phases. From both a tooling and component supply perspective, these programmes represent exciting opportunities for Hampson’s businesses.
In military aerospace we expect demand to vary across programmes in the shorter term depending on operational need, with budget pressures across the US and Europe adversely impacting some existing programmes. The important F-35 programme, to which the Group supplies both component and assembly tooling systems, as well as advanced, lightweight high temperature composite engine components, will continue to see a progressive increase from low initial production rates.
OUR PEOPLE
Despite the many challenges we have faced in 2010/11 and the difficult decisions we have at times had to take during the year, the commitment and dedication of our people has been outstanding. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them all for their efforts and pay tribute to their professionalism.
OUTLOOK
Although some short term challenges remain, I am confident that the actions we have taken and those we continue to pursue have laid the foundations for a return to sustainable growth and higher levels of performance going forward.
