PlastikCity on Tour: Jenco, Tool-Temp & PTA UK

PlastikCity’s next visit took us to Wellingborough, home to three well-known names operating under one roof. Tool-Temp Ltd, Jenco Controls & Export, and PTA UK function as distinct brands, but together they form a cohesive group that provides complete process solutions across materials handling, temperature control, cooling, hot runner management and fluid transfer. The result is a single, coordinated source of support for plastics processors and other industries, combining decades of technical knowledge and flexible, UK-based service.

We were met by Charlotte Brewster, Commercial and Marketing Manager for all three companies, who gave us an overview of how the brands complement one another, before Engineer Steve guided us through the workshop and manufacturing areas. The tour clearly showed how the three businesses now operate as one integrated unit. Shared knowledge, overlapping projects and cross-trained staff create a seamless workflow that benefits both efficiency and customer service.

From a customer perspective, the group’s joined-up approach means everything from raw material conveying to process temperature control and cooling can be sourced from one place. Jenco continues to design and build all its materials handling systems in the UK, offering the flexibility to create fully customised installations. A current focus is on its latest vacuum loaders, which now feature brushless motors. These deliver improved reliability, energy efficiency and quieter operation, while removing the maintenance requirements of traditional brushed systems. For processors running continuous production, that translates into more stable conveying performance and reduced downtime.

Meanwhile, Tool-Temp UK remains the exclusive UK distributor for the Swiss-made Tool-Temp range of temperature control units, providing a combination of system design, local stock, extensive UK spare parts, refurbishments, and nationwide service support. One of the most exciting developments for the company is the launch of its MATIC energy-saving software, which uses variable-speed control and adaptive regulation to cut power consumption while maintaining precise temperature control. Customers using MATIC have already reported significant savings in both energy and cost.

Alongside this, Tool-Temp has introduced the IRIS control system, which integrates a touchscreen interface, remote access and advanced connectivity, allowing operators to monitor and manage temperature control units more efficiently. This system enhances process stability and supports Industry 4.0 connectivity, turning what was once a standalone unit into a fully integrated, data-driven control platform.

Supporting both Tool-Temp and Jenco is PTA UK, which began as Tool-Temp’s installation and project management arm and now provides wider engineering, installation and commissioning support. PTA UK has also broadened the group’s capabilities through new partnerships. As the UK agent for Frigosystem, PTA can now supply an expanded range of cooling and chilling systems, offering customers greater choice across different performance levels and budgets. The company also represents Gammaflux hot runner controllers and manufactures stainless steel braided hoses, fittings and valves in-house, rounding out a complete process solution that can be tailored to each client’s specific setup.

Together, Jenco, Tool-Temp and PTA UK demonstrate how combining long-term expertise with complementary product lines can create a true one-stop shop for processors. Whether supplying a single hopper loader or delivering a turnkey system, the group’s collaborative structure ensures that customers receive technically consistent, well-supported solutions every time.

Inside the workshop

Before moving on to the Q&A, Steven showed us around the in-house build area, where a number of Jenco projects were in progress. It was a useful reminder that this is not a business that only specifies equipment and ships it out. Systems are built on site in Wellingborough, with the same team also handling servicing, repairs and ongoing maintenance support.

Steven also pointed out the practical advantage this gives customers when something needs attention quickly. With build, service and repair capability in-house, the team can respond fast, whether it’s a planned maintenance visit, a refurbishment, or a breakdown that needs turning around without dragging out lead times.

A key part of that responsiveness is stockholding. Each company maintains a significant stock of consumables and spare parts, which helps the service team keep customers running without waiting for long inbound deliveries. For processors with continuous production, that combination of local engineering capability and ready-to-go spares can make a real difference to downtime and continuity.

Following the tour, we sat down with Charlotte to discuss the focus of each company for the year ahead.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

“Our biggest strength is our combined knowledge,” explains Charlotte. “Across the three companies, several of our team members have been here for more than 20 years, and together we have over a century of collective experience. That depth of understanding means our customers can come to us with a challenge, knowing we’ll have someone in-house who’s not only seen it before but has suggested solutions to help.”

She continues, “We’re a friendly and approachable group, and want to share our knowledge and skills, supporting one another and enjoying what we do, that carries through into the way we work with our customers. The three brands complement one another perfectly, which means we can offer solutions for almost any industry. Because we’re a flexible, family-run company, customers get the benefit of direct communication and quick decision-making.”

What are the company’s plans for the next 12 months?

“My focus recently has been on developing a new website for Tool-Temp UK, which launched in December. I want to keep improving and adding to the website to make sure our customers have easier access to product information and technical resources, and it accurately represents the Tool-Temp brand in the UK” says Charlotte. “For Jenco, there are some exciting developments coming soon, but I can’t say too much just yet—keep your eyes peeled for announcements in the new year.”

“For PTA UK, we’re focusing on growing our relationship with Frigosystem and continuing to expand our project solutions that we can offer. That partnership has already given us a wider range of options for customers looking at energy-efficient cooling for their process.”

Are you planning to attend any open days or trade shows?

“Yes, we recently exhibited at Plastics Live Ireland in November and we’ll be at Interplas at the NEC in June 2026,” Charlotte confirms. “We’re also considering the possibility of hosting an open day or open house event here in Wellingborough in the near future. It would be a great opportunity for customers to see the full setup and meet the wider team.”

Do you have an official or unofficial company statement or mantra?

“We don’t have an official slogan, but our approach is simple,” Charlotte explains. “We look after our staff, and we look after our customers. A happy, well-supported team naturally creates happy customers, and that’s what drives long-term success. Many of our customers have been with us for years, and that loyalty comes from building trust and supporting them whenever they need us.” 

Find out more

To learn more about Jenco, Tool-Temp UK and PTA UK / Frigosystem UK, or to request quotations and support, visit their websites for product ranges and contact details.

Thank you to Charlotte for an insightful visit, and an overview of three fantastic company success stories that are continuing to grow into 2026.