Heads Up Technologies acquires STG Aerospace

Texas-based Heads Up Technologies, a manufacturer of lighting systems, cabin management systems and flight deck safety products, has acquired cabin lighting manufacturer STG Aerospace.

The acquisition will allow Heads Up Technologies to “leverage [its] collective lighting solutions to meet critical OEM and operator needs across the entire aviation market,” according to Robert Harshaw, president and CEO, Heads Up Technology. “STG Aerospace’s concept-to-certification capability and extensive intellectual property are excellent complements to Heads Up Technologies’ portfolio of lighting innovations,” he said.

“Combining the expertise and products of both Heads Up Technologies and STG Aerospace makes an exciting solution set,” said Grant Bennett, CEO, STG Aerospace. “Designing high-quality emergency and cabin lighting components and systems that utilise our deep expertise and proprietary technology to create innovative solutions is our goal.”

STG Aerospace, based in both Miami and Cwmbran in the UK, was established in 1995 and designed the first photoluminescent emergency guidance systems for aircraft. The company’s turnover dropped from £13.1m in 2019 to £7.7m in 2020, according to its latest results for the year ending 31st December 2020, while its pre-tax profit decreased from £3.4m to £506,000 in the same period. This marks the first deal for Heads Up Technologies since it was acquired by private equity firm JLL Partners in 2019, adding to JLL’s aviation portfolio which includes MRO Aviation Technical Services (ATS).