Picture caption: Geoff Thomasson, Husky's chief executive

Lutterworth-based Husky, the international refrigeration specialist, has clinched a global collaboration deal with world-leading commercial freezer manufacturer, AHT. The agreement will see Husky products distributed by AHT outlets worldwide.

Within the UK the agreement establishes AHT as the exclusive importer to the UK of all Husky products.  However, Husky will continue to supply and grow its existing client base.

Both companies will receive significant advantages from the deal, which will ensure closer working relationships without any loss of independence to either party.

Both companies gain access to one another's extensive global markets, while AHT also benefits from Husky's specialist expertise in servicing equipment which uses the latest hydrocarbon gases.

AHT is keen to develop sales of its eco-friendly equipment in the UK which has been restricted until now because of problems finding maintenance engineers with an understanding of R600 and R290, the non-greenhouse gases used as refrigerants.

All future service will be carried out by Husky's service company, which almost uniquely in the UK has detailed knowledge of the gases concerned, having worked with them since Husky switched to their use five years ago.

The maintenance team, which services the UK and Ireland on a 24/7 year round basis, also has an impressive 'first time fix' record

The collaborative venture was signed by Per Hyldahl, chief executive of AHT Gmbh and Geoff Thomasson, Husky's chief executive.

AHT manufacturers its freezers at various international locations and supplies most of the world's largest hypermarket chains.

Husky recently launched a new, eco-friendly range which can save retailers - from superstores to independents - up to 45 per cent on their electricity bills.

As well as running on environmentally safe refrigerants, appliances in the Intelligenzia range are able to 'think' for themselves, switching to low cost night mode when they detect a fall in activity, for example.

In future, chillers and refrigeration units will be branded AHT Husky and will be among the most environmentally friendly available, reflecting the green credentials of both chief executives. Freezers will retain the AHT name.

Mr Hyldahl said: "Husky's achievement in developing low energy and environmentally friendly equipment is quite remarkable.

"Like us they have a commitment to the environment that goes way beyond commercial motives. For AHT our reputation is of paramount importance and finding a refrigeration company with the commitment level of the Husky team was a challenge."

Thanking Per Hydal and Jeppe Lisberg for brokering the deal, Mr Thomasson added: "The opportunity of a partnership with AHT is perfect for Husky, although we both want to stress that this is merely a strategic trading agreement, not a merger.

"We are a lean operation with lots of ideas and enthusiasm as well as taking great pride in what we do."