S-5!, the US manufacturer known for its metal-roof attachment systems for solar PV and snow-retention applications, has acquired ESS Group Engineering Technical Center, a Spanish engineering firm, and inaugurated a new manufacturing plant in northern Spain. The investment enhances the company’s ability to serve Europe’s fast-growing demand for solar mounting hardware, distributed generation infrastructure and roof-integration components, while strengthening its regional logistics and distributor network.
Founded in 2011, ESS Group Engineering Technical Center specialises in progressive metal stamping and tooling, with a strong track record in the automotive and aeronautical industries. The acquisition significantly expands S-5!’s engineering capabilities in Europe and reinforces the company’s global leadership in metal-roof anchoring technologies. The Spanish operation will now trade as ES5.
“This acquisition enhances our ability to support customers across the European Union,” said Rob Haddock, S-5!’s CEO and founder.
“ES5 brings technical depth that aligns with our product requirements and company philosophy. By combining their capabilities with S-5!’s proven manufacturing model, we can produce closer to end-users, improve lead times and offer stronger regional support without compromising the standards our customers rely on.”
The former ESS management team will retain equity and continue to oversee day-to-day operations at the facility near Bilbao, ensuring technical continuity and a smooth transition. S-5! is also deploying technical and manufacturing personnel from its Texas headquarters to Spain to provide hands-on training and operational support.
“In Europe, metal-roof fastening solutions are required for a wide range of applications — from solar PV systems and snow-retention technologies to various utility-mounting needs,” Haddock added. “This new plant allows us to support these applications throughout the continent by producing components regionally while maintaining the engineering discipline, rigorous testing and certification standards that underpin every product we make.”
European manufacturing, global standards
The new ES5 satellite facility is equipped with next-generation technology aligned with S-5!’s production processes in the United States. Manufacturing in Spain enables the company to serve customers across Europe and neighbouring regions, with products designed to match the metal-roof profiles commonly used in the region. US-manufactured components will continue to serve other global markets.
Harry Carner, S-5!’s Senior Vice President of Manufacturing, is overseeing the development of the ES5 plant to replicate the quality-assurance systems and process controls used in Texas. Each production stage — from material certification to machining and final inspection — follows established protocols to ensure accuracy, consistency and verifiable quality regardless of origin.
Automation remains central to ensuring cost-efficient production and uniform quality. Under Carner’s leadership in process improvement and manufacturing innovation, the new facility is positioned to become one of Europe’s most efficient metal-component manufacturing operations.
