Looking for a Fast, Flexible, and Reliable Supplier
Purchasing Manager Merja Kauto recalls that the collaboration began a decade ago when Halton Marine needed seals cut to exact lengths. “We are a project-based company, and we were looking for a supplier who is flexible, fast, and reliable. That’s when V.A.V. Group became our partner,” she explains.
Today, V.A.V. Group delivers seals for a wide range of Halton products, particularly fire dampers used on ships. These components play a vital role in passenger safety. In the event of a fire, the dampers close to prevent flames and toxic gases from spreading to other parts of the vessel. Even though seals may seem like a small element in the system, their function is critical.
Customer-Centric Service
Halton’s requirements are strict for a reason: seals must meet stringent safety certifications, withstand explosive atmospheres, and comply with ISO standards. According to Kauto, V.A.V. Group delivers consistently on all fronts.
She highlights the personal service provided by V.A.V. Group’s sales manager, Mia Ahlgren: “Whenever I call, I get an answer—or a call back almost immediately. She understands that our customers in Asia, for example, cannot wait until the next day. Quick responses are essential.”
This responsiveness extends beyond communication. V.A.V. Group agreed to cut seals to precise measurements for different damper blades, a service that makes installation on Halton’s manufacturing floor faster and easier. Importantly, the same level of attention is given regardless of order size, whether Kauto orders two pieces or twenty thousand.
Quality, Price, and Reliability
For Halton, the decision to continue working with V.A.V. Group is clear. The “holy trinity” of quality, lead time, and price is consistently met. While seals are not the most expensive components in their products, their reliability is non-negotiable.
Kauto also notes the value of transparent communication. “Problems do and will happen– whether it’s availability issues or quality concerns. But V.A.V. Group always informs us in advance. That honesty makes it possible for us to prepare and for our own customers to prepare. It’s not easy to deliver difficult news, but it shows real partnership.”
Beyond Transactions: Building Trust
The relationship goes beyond email exchanges. Meetings at trade fairs and factory visits have built trust and opened doors for joint development discussions. According to Kauto, this personal connection makes it easier to ask questions and explore potential solutions together.
Halton also values the supplier’s commitment to sustainability and certifications. Documentation, audits, and continuous improvement efforts demonstrate that V.A.V. Group is aligned with the growing importance of environmental responsibility in the industry.
For Halton Marine, safety and reliability are the cornerstones of its products, and V.A.V. Group’s seals help ensure both. A decade of collaboration has proven the value of a partner who delivers quality, flexibility, and transparent service. As Kauto summarizes, the reason for loyalty is simple: “When quality, delivery time, and price are all in balance, there’s no reason to change suppliers.”
