William Hackett and Vulcan Hoist Form Strategic Transatlantic Partnership
- Meagan Wood
- Dec 10, 2025
- 4 min read
30-Second Takeaway
Global lifting equipment specialist William Hackett has entered into a strategic partnership with Vulcan Hoist, Canada’s only domestic manufacturer of electric hoists. The agreement brings together two long-established hoist manufacturers and will expand product availability, technical expertise, and market reach across North America and beyond from 2026
Strategic Partnership Unites Two Established Hoist Manufacturers
William Hackett, a trusted global supplier of safety-critical lifting, rigging, and chain solutions, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Vulcan Hoist.
The collaboration brings together two respected hoist manufacturers from either side of the Atlantic. Founded in 1892 in the UK, William Hackett is a global leader in bespoke chain solutions, manual hoists, and lifting products. Vulcan Hoist Co. Ltd., based in Montreal, is the only Canadian manufacturer of electric hoists and trolleys, with more than 60 years of manufacturing history.
Reciprocal Product Sharing from 2026
From 2026, the partnership will include reciprocal product sharing, enabling Vulcan customers in Canada and the United States to gain improved access to William Hackett’s comprehensive range of hoists and lifting equipment.
The rollout will begin with the William Hackett Quad Pawl hoists range, with the product portfolio expanding progressively throughout 2026. In parallel, William Hackett will benefit from Vulcan Hoist’s specialist expertise in electric hoist technology, strengthening its position as a full-line hoist provider.
Leadership Perspective on Shared Values and Customer Focus
Commenting on the agreement, Mick Howard, CEO at William Hackett, said:
“This strategic partnership is the perfect fit for both parties. Like William Hackett, Vulcan has a family-run ethos with strong family values and a customer-first approach. By working together, we strengthen each other and most importantly, bring the benefits of a broader product range and enhanced stock availability to our clients worldwide. “In addition, our existing teams can now draw from a larger pool of expertise and experience, to ensure the highest levels of customer service.”
Expansion into Canada and Broader Industry Reach
The partnership represents a significant milestone in William Hackett’s expansion into the Canadian market, combining more than a century of lifting equipment expertise with Vulcan’s established electric hoist capabilities.
The collaboration is expected to accelerate product availability and enhance service capabilities across a broad range of sectors, including energy, infrastructure, commercial, and construction industries.
Vulcan Hoist’s Manufacturing and Service Capabilities
While Vulcan Hoist was incorporated as a limited company in 1964, its origins date back to 1947. The company is best known for its electric hoists, but since 1973 has also supplied manual chain hoists, ratchet pullers, beam and plate clamps, and other lifting-related products.
In addition to sales, Vulcan offers equipment rental, hoist certification, and maintenance and repair services, supporting customers throughout the full lifecycle of lifting equipment.
UK Manufacturing Base and Global Supply
All William Hackett lifting products are supplied through the company’s facility in Alnwick, North-East England, which has been operational for 35 years and serves as a key hub for manufacturing, assembly, and distribution.
Mick Howard added:
“The partnership with Vulcan Hoist will accelerate our plans for expansion into Canada, an important market for William Hackett. It is also our goal to be a full-line provider of hoists and associated equipment. The ability to offer our global customer base electric hoists built with the same quality and care as our manual hoists and our recently launched pneumatic hoists, represents a major step forward in that strategy.”
About William Hackett
William Hackett is a UK-based, family-owned manufacturer and global supplier of safety-critical lifting, rigging, and chain solutions. Founded in 1892, the company specialises in bespoke chain solutions, manual hoists, pneumatic hoists, and associated lifting equipment.
Operating from its facility in Alnwick, North-East England, William Hackett serves customers worldwide across construction, infrastructure, energy, and industrial markets, with a strong focus on quality, compliance, and customer service.
About Vulcan Hoist
Vulcan Hoist Co. Ltd., headquartered in Montreal, Canada, is the country’s only domestic manufacturer of electric hoists and trolleys. With roots dating back to 1947, Vulcan has built a strong reputation for reliable electric hoist solutions, complemented by a wide range of manual lifting equipment.
In addition to manufacturing and sales, Vulcan provides equipment rental, certification, maintenance, and repair services, supporting customers across multiple industries throughout North America.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
Why is this partnership significant for the lifting industry?
The agreement brings together complementary expertise in manual, pneumatic, and electric hoists, strengthening product availability and technical support across international markets.
What products will be shared under the partnership?
Product sharing will begin in 2026 with William Hackett’s Quad Pawl hoists, with additional hoists and lifting equipment added throughout the year.
How does the partnership benefit customers in North America?
Customers in Canada and the USA gain improved access to a broader range of safety-critical hoists, enhanced stock availability, and expanded technical expertise.
Why is Canada an important market for William Hackett?
Canada represents a key growth market, with strong demand across infrastructure, energy, and construction sectors that align closely with William Hackett’s product strengths.
Will Vulcan Hoist products be available to William Hackett customers?
Yes. William Hackett will benefit from Vulcan’s electric hoist expertise, supporting its goal of becoming a full-line hoist and lifting equipment provider.
