An established Cheshire engineering supplier has secured its future by transitioning to full employee ownership, backed by a significant seven-figure funding package from a high street bank.
A New Chapter of Shared Ownership
Integrated Air Systems, based in Wilmslow, has successfully become an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) following a £1.45 million loan from HSBC UK. The move, finalised in early January 2026, involved using the capital to buy out the company's existing shareholders, placing the business into the hands of its workforce.
Under the continued leadership of chairman Graham Marginson, the firm specialises in designing, manufacturing, and installing sophisticated air conveyance and environmental control systems for international manufacturers. Founded in 2002, the company has built a formidable global reputation.
Global Reach and Ambitious Growth Plans
The Wilmslow business is not just a local operator; it boasts an impressive international project portfolio. Current and recent contracts span continents, including work in Brazil, Chile, Egypt, Spain, Poland, and the United States, with a history of exporting to destinations from Australia to Vietnam.
With the new ownership structure in place, the company has set clear, ambitious targets. Leadership aims to grow the firm's turnover by 15% over the next 12 months. To support this expansion, the workforce is expected to increase from 30 to 35 employees.
Graham Marginson emphasised that the EOT model directly rewards the team's dedication. "The success of Integrated Air Systems stems from the dedication of our employees and the efforts they put into the business," he said. "We want to reward this hard work and this EOT enables just that. This change marks a pivotal moment in our broader growth strategy as we continue with a rewarding bright future for the business."
Bank Backing for a Progressive Model
The transition was facilitated by HSBC UK, whose relationship manager, Andrew Holgate, expressed strong support for the employee-ownership model. "It’s great to support Integrated Air Systems with this milestone transition of ownership," Holgate stated. "It’s fantastic to support businesses with employees at their heart, aligning with our beliefs of empowering individuals as a way to drive long-term success."
This strategic shift positions Integrated Air Systems among a growing number of UK manufacturing firms adopting the EOT model. The structure is designed to ensure long-term stability, motivate staff by giving them a direct stake in the company's prosperity, and secure the legacy of the business for the people who contribute to its daily success.
