Wardwell Braiding Company announced that it has acquired Cobra Braiding Machinery (Cobra) and the assets of the U.K. business.

A press release said that Cobra, established in the U.K. in 1981, is a fourth-generation family-run company that has a strong reputation as a manufacturer of wire harness and cable harness braiding machinery. It manufactures and supplies braiding machines and equipment for a wide range of wiring harness markets that include heavy vehicles, agricultural equipment, construction and mining equipment, military and defense vehicles, marine engines and aerospace. Nearly all its braiding machines are exported overseas to countries including the USA, Mexico, Europe, China, Japan and Australia.

“Wardwell and Cobra have been friendly competitors for many years on the global market in wire and cable harnessing,” said Wardwell Vice President John Tomaz. “When this opportunity for acquisition arose, we knew it was a great fit for our company and our customers. I have the highest respect for the Cobra line of braiders and especially the company’s managing director, Neil Hyde.”

Hyde, who will remain active in the company as general manager for a period of time, saw much value in the deal. “Teaming up with Wardwell gives us the confidence that our customers will continue to receive the performance and support they are accustomed to getting from Cobra,” he said.

Wardwell is a member of Germany’s Wilms Group, which includes major equipment manufacturers around the world such as SKET, Henrich and Spirka-Schnellflechter. This global network of suppliers to the industry has improved each member’s market position. The Wardwell braiding machine offerings will now include the Cobra line, including its industry-recognized Cobra 450.

“We see the Cobra line, when joined with ours, creating a positive synergy in sales and marketing for us on a global scale,” Tomaz said.