A LOCAL company has signed a major deal which is set to provide a massive sales boost.

Airedale Chemical, based in Cross Hills, near Keighley, has struck an agreement with Netherlands-based manufacturer BRB International.

Through the link-up, the Skipton Road firm will be the only UK distributor of the Dutch giant’s technical and food grade ‘antifoam’ foam-control agents.

The so-called Akasil range is aimed at the water treatment industry and processes within the cleaning, food manufacture and agrochemical sectors.

As a result of the deal, there is expected to be a 125 per cent increase in sales of the products this year and it will develop Airedale Chemical’s presence in target markets.

Daniel Marr, commercial director at Airedale Chemical, hailed the move as a huge step forward for the company.

“The agreement is crucial to our strategy for new product growth,” he said.

“It forms part of our objective to introduce at least one new product category each year through principal partnerships or organic new product development.

“We’ve identified huge potential for growth in the antifoam market.

"This deal will offer us access to new customers and also use our existing presence amongst potential customers to introduce the BRB International brand.

“Our existing and new customers will feel added value from the extended range of quality products and being able to access technical support direct from the manufacturer.

"We’re now also able to provide enhanced high-technology antifoam matching services, where existing products can be sampled and we can recommend the best options available.”

Marc Ballmann, account manager for BRB International, also welcomed the deal.

He said: “This partnership will provide us with an even greater UK presence.

“Airedale Chemical has a 20-strong fleet of specially-designed vehicles which will offer a truly reliable delivery service and confidence of supply.

“We will also be utilising the established sales team, which will support our growth in the UK and has a proven record of longevity in the market.”

Airedale Chemical, based in Cross Hills since 1994, provides chemicals and contract manufacturing to a range of markets.

The company was established in 1973, when late chairman and founder Brian Chadwick began producing his own range of dye stuff solutions. Over the following years Airedale Chemical gradually expanded.