STATS Group signs strategic European distribution deal with Patriot

STATS Group has signed a strategic partnership with Patriot International (Patriot) to supply its mechanical pipe connectors and localised hydrostatic weld testing tools to six key European markets.

The distributorship agreement will see Patriot support the roll-out of STATS’ proven technology, including weld test tools, pipe end plugs (internal & external) and mechanical pipe connectors.

STATS has a similar long-standing distributorship agreement in Scandinavia but the Patriot deal will extend its presence in mainland Europe, targeting the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg and Spain.

Patriot will hold stock of STATS tools portfolio at its bases in the Netherlands and Belgium, reducing shipping time and costs, while providing a more responsive and environmentally friendly service to pipeline sector clients.

STATS localised weld test tools have several advantages over traditional methods, avoiding the requirement to flood, hydrotest and then de-water significant volumes of pipework, reducing unnecessary production downtime. STATS inline weld test tool is designed to improve shutdown efficiency, the dual use of the tool allows it to be deployed prior to hotwork as a verified vapour barrier, greatly increasing worksite safety. Once welding is completed the same tool can then be repositioned to perform a leak-test of the new flange, fitting or off-take.

Cold work solutions like STATS’ mechanical pipe connectors eliminate the need for welding and significantly reduce the duration of maintenance projects, making them a cost-effective and popular choice for pipe repairs, tie ins and the capping of redundant pipe work.

Myles M. Campbell, Managing Director, Patriot international and Ryan Holt, General Manager - Europe, STATS Group

STATS business development manager Europe, Mike Kaiser, said: “Patriot has an excellent reputation as a reliable rental and services provider in the European pipeline market and this agreement is a natural fit with STATS ambitions to grow our reputation and revenue across the continent.

“Rules and regulations in the sector are changing and end-users are keen to have access to our advanced technology which addresses issues raised with traditional methods conducted during routine pipeline maintenance and modification.

“We have a responsibility to meet that market demand and our alliance with Patriot will help us introduce our technology to a wider European client base, benefiting both companies and our respective clients.”

Patriot International managing director, Myles M. Campbell, added: “This agreement will give STATS a firm footprint in mainland Europe with the ability to deliver its products straight to the market with the benefit of Patriot specialist personnel being on hand to oversee correct application. This presents a significant opportunity for both companies to introduce innovative product and service solutions to a market that demands real value in terms of cost, time and resource.”