Leading manufacturer ‘KANE’ expands into Greater Manchester

KANE, a UK manufacturer of gas measuring systems, is committed to its strategic decision to expand its operations in Atherton as part of its ambitious ’30/30’ vision. The company is already garnering praise from leading figures in Greater Manchester.

The company’s “30/30 Vision” aims to reach £30 million turnover with a 30% operating profit margin by 2030. Part of the move was to make the most of the business support available in Greater Manchester, in particular GM Business Growth Hub.

KANE has been experiencing ongoing success at its Hertfordshire site, which is crucial to its operations. In light of this, the company has made a strategic decision to expand its Atherton site to support its growth vision. This dual-site strategy demonstrates KANE’s commitment to expanding across regions and its dedication to both its northern and southern workforce.

“KANE has ambitious plans, and we wanted to establish our second location in a place that aligns with those goals. Greater Manchester seemed like the natural choice,” says Jonathan Hoole, Managing Director of KANE.

“With the support of the GM Business Growth Hub, we are realizing that this was the right decision for our growth. We are proud to be a part of the local business community here.”

Working with the Hub, KANE implemented a tailored program of leadership development, lean manufacturing workshops, and operational improvements. The results were immediate: a 50% reduction in space requirements and a 60% reduction in manpower for specific processes, all while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.

“GM Business Growth Hub has helped us become more productive, more confident, and more competitive,” said Jonathan. “It’s not just about training—it’s about transformation.”

They’ve already been recognized by Mayor Andy Burnham as a standout example of how manufacturing businesses can drive regional growth and innovation. During a recent visit to KANE’s Atherton site, the Mayor highlighted the company’s alignment with Greater Manchester’s 10-year growth strategy and its commitment to building a skilled workforce and investing in future talent.

To support this ambition, KANE has also expanded its export strategy with the Hub’s guidance, entering new markets including Italy, Brazil, Germany, and Southeast Asia.

Beyond operations, KANE is investing in future talent. Through partnerships with The Manchester College, the company offered T Level placements to four students—two of whom have already received employment apprenticeships. KANE also works with Bedford High School, where Managing Director Jonathan Hoole has delivered careers talks to inspire young people to pursue engineering.

“Businesses like KANE are a great example of how the environment a business is in can be as important as what they do. Greater Manchester is the most exciting place to do business right now,” said Anne Campion, Head of Manufacturing for GM Business Growth Hub. “The success they are already having is testament to that.”