Sheffield-based rail depot equipment manufacturer, Mechan, is expanding its presence in the Middle East after forging links with a second agent in the area.

Mechan has joined forces with specialist railway supply firm, Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Establishment, to raise the profile of its products among the region’s transport industry.

The partnership follows less than a year after Mechan signed up its first agent in the Middle East, who is already promoting the firm’s products in the United Arab Emirates.

Mechan will be represented by Riyadh Establishment in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt and other neighbouring countries, adding the UK firm’s depot maintenance, handling and lifting equipment to its portfolio of rail products.

Rami Ziada, Riyadh Establishment’s technical manager, said, “We were particularly keen to find a company that could supply workshop machinery and equipment to our client base and Mechan fits the bill perfectly. The company has an excellent international reputation and is a welcome addition to our list of suppliers. We are looking forward to introducing Mechan’s products to the Middle East and building a lasting and prosperous relationship with the firm.”

Riyadh Establishment approached Mechan via the British Embassy in Saudi Arabia after UK Trade and Investment conducted an overseas marketing investigation report into the area on behalf of the firm.

Richard Carr, Mechan’s managing director, added, “Mechan was actively seeking another agent in the Middle East when we were contacted by Riyadh Establishment. The company was an obvious choice, boasting excellent links to the producers, manufacturers and operators serving the booming rail industry in the region. I am confident that together, we can significantly improve the profile of our products and secure a greater slice of this very active market.”

Mechan will be exhibiting at the InnoTrans 2010 exhibition in Berlin from 21 to 24 September in hall 2.2, stand 212e. For further information about the firm’s wide range of rail depot equipment and details of its overseas suppliers, please visit the Mechan website.