BARNSLEY, YORKSHIRE, UK, February 28, 2025 – Melett, a global leader in the turbocharger aftermarket, proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. From humble beginnings in 1995 to its current status as part of the Wabtec Corporation, Melett’s journey has been marked by innovation, growth, and unwavering commitment to quality.
Melett’s journey began in 1995 when Melvyn Hackett, a veteran of the turbo industry, founded the company. Drawing from his extensive experience at Garrett and Rotomaster, Hackett laid the foundation for what would become a leader in the turbocharger aftermarket.
The company faced its first major challenge in 2001 with the sudden loss of its founder. However, under the new ownership of Ian Warhurst in 2002, Melett found renewed direction and continued its growth trajectory.
By 2006, Melett’s expansion necessitated a move to larger premises in Clayton West, Huddersfield. This move marked a period of substantial growth, allowing for increased product development and improved quality facilities.
A significant milestone came in 2011 with a €1.4 million investment in new headquarters in Barnsley, Yorkshire. This expansion greatly enhanced Melett’s global service capabilities, including improved warehousing, shipping, and engineering facilities.
Melett’s global footprint grew significantly in 2012 with the opening of Melett North America Inc., its first satellite office. This was quickly followed by the establishment of Melett Polska in 2013, strengthening the company’s presence in the European market.
The year 2014 saw Melett take greater control of its manufacturing operations. The company moved its in-house core production to a larger facility and launched a new manufacturing facility in China, marking a new era of production capabilities.
Further expansion came in 2016 with the addition of a 12,500 sqm warehouse adjacent to the UK Head Office. This significant increase in capacity allowed Melett to house an ever-expanding product range and enhance stock availability.
A transformative moment arrived in 2017 when Melett was acquired by the Wabtec Corporation, joining a global group of turbocharger solution providers. This acquisition opened new avenues for growth and technological advancement.
As Melett celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2025, it marks another milestone with the announcement of a new turbocharger core assembly production facility in Bydgoszcz, Poland. This latest expansion strengthens Melett’s European capability and creates a centralized hub to serve customers across the European Union, setting the stage for continued growth and innovation in the years to come.
„As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we reflect on our journey from a small UK business to a global leader in the turbocharger aftermarket,” said Chris Wallhead, managing director of Melett. „Our latest expansion in Poland is a testament to our continued growth and commitment to serving our European customers with excellence.
“The new facility in Bydgoszcz, Poland, creates a centralised hub to serve customers across the European Union, further strengthening Melett’s European capabilities.
“Looking ahead, Melett remains committed to innovation, quality, and customer service as it continues to shape the future of the turbocharger aftermarket industry.”
