PREA Navigates a Year of Global Challenges and Opportunities

PREA, a UK-based consultancy firm with a global presence, continues to offer valuable services to the polymer industry. The company’s expertise spans plastics, composites, rubbers, adhesives, polyurethanes, and textiles. Despite global uncertainty, PREA’s CEO, Pravin S Mistry, reflects on the past year, shedding light on how the business has adapted and remained active amid challenging times.

Navigating a Year of Turmoil

It has been a tumultuous year, as many countries have faced elections, inflation, and an ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Businesses worldwide are learning to cope with the “new norm,” where stability remains elusive. Despite these obstacles, PREA’s services continue to be sought after, both in the UK and globally. From management consultancy to mergers and acquisitions (M&A), restructuring companies, and helping businesses grow, PREA remains a trusted partner in navigating today’s complexities.

With the UK’s current economic climate uncertain, business leaders are bracing themselves for more challenging times ahead. PREA continues to provide essential support, advising businesses on how to prepare for the future.

PREA’s Services at a Glance

PREA offers a broad range of consultancy services, including:

• Management Consultancy
• M&A (Buying and Selling Companies)
• Restructuring Companies
• Preparing Businesses for Sale
• Chair Roles (Part-time and Full-time)
• Growth Strategy

Activity in M&A and Company Restructuring

In the past year, PREA has been actively involved on both the buy and sell sides of M&A transactions. The firm has worked with strategic buyers, private equity investors, and family offices across various sectors.

On the Buy Side:

• Thermoplastics Compounding Companies
• Pan-European or Global Compounding Groups
• Rubber Compounding Companies in India
• Aerospace Manufacturing Companies
• Medical Manufacturing Companies
• Injection Moulding Companies
• Composite Manufacturing
• Extrusion

On the Sell Side:

• Injection Moulding Companies
• Extrusion Companies
• Recycling Extrusion Companies

In addition to these mandates, PREA assists companies seeking investment opportunities. Mistry notes that the workload remains heavy, with significant efforts spent on due diligence, restructuring, and preparing companies for sale.

Adapting to Industry Changes

Unfortunately, the consultancy has also had to manage several company closures and administrations. In these cases, PREA assists with the sale of assets and helps affected employees find new roles. Despite the challenges, the firm remains busy, providing solutions during tough times.

Shifts in Recruitment

Recruitment has been a mixed picture over the past year. Early on, demand was strong, but since June, many companies have downsized, leading PREA to focus more on outplacement services. The company has been working with employers to help displaced workers update their CVs and secure new roles, particularly in commercial, technical, and operational sectors. PREA continues to connect candidates with permanent and interim positions in leadership and technical roles.

Increasing Demand for Technical Consultancy

As companies face operational pressures, PREA’s technical consultancy services have seen growing demand. This year, the firm has been particularly busy assisting clients with everything from formulating and processing to implementing lean manufacturing practices. Despite market uncertainty, the need for expert technical guidance shows no signs of slowing down.

Machinery Sales: New vs. Used

The machinery sector has faced its own struggles. Sales of new machines have declined, with prices for used machinery also falling. However, PREA continues to assist clients with their machinery needs, navigating the ups and downs of the market.

Giving Back to the Community

PREA is also committed to giving back. The firm is currently working on a voluntary project with a state school, setting up a polymer laboratory for students aged 11 to 18. The lab will focus on hands-on learning, including table-top injection moulding, vacuum forming, and 3D printing. PREA is reaching out to companies for donations of equipment and raw materials to support this initiative. Those interested in contributing can contact the company directly.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges of the past year, PREA continues to play a pivotal role in helping businesses navigate the complex landscape of the polymer industry. As the world faces ongoing uncertainty, PREA’s expertise in consultancy, recruitment, and technical services remains crucial for businesses looking to adapt and grow.

For more information on how PREA can assist your business or to contribute to the school project, please contact the team via their website.

Find more news from PREA here.

PREA
0161 207 8007
Website
Email