A LEADING Oswaldtwistle-based pneumatic firm has signed a major deal to expand into the Chinese market.

Pneumatrol Limited, formerly RGS Davis, is a specialist manufacturer operating in the areas of pneumatic and electro-pneumatic products from its headquarters on West End Business Park.

It provides engineered pneumatic solutions for use within hazardous environment and non hazardous areas, including process, rail, energy and industrial market sectors.

Bosses have finalised an agreement with Shenzhen Auto-Valve Controls Company Ltd to bring its products to the Chinese market.

Shenzhen Auto-Valve was founded in 2005, with strong expertise within the automatic valve control industry. It serves the natural gas, power and petrochemical sectors in China. Andy Nash, sales director of Pneumatrol, said at a time of contraction for many businesses, Pneumatrol had decided to take on new challenges by growing into further international markets.

He said: “Following a strategic review of the business in 2013, we have elected to develop our business further into the Chinese market which has significant potential for our products especially within the process and energy sectors.

“We design and manufacture a wide range of pneumatic and electro-pneumatic products - standard and bespoke - to meet our customers’ requirements. Growing export sales into China, is a very important part of our business strategy and I have great confidence in this new joint venture.”

Ryan Wang, managing director of Auto-Valve Controls Co Ltd, said: “British products have a great reputation in China, not only because of its solid build quality, but also the advanced industry standards. We are delighted that Pneumatrol has chosen Auto-Valve Controls as its strategic partner for the Chinese market and we look forward to a successful ongoing relationship.”