The partnership, which commences at the start of June, will further strengthen Midea’s presence across the UK. With seventeen branches strategically placed across England, Scotland, and Wales, and its head office in Leicester, Smith Brothers Stores is the perfect distribution partner for Midea.

Smith Brothers Stores has been operating since 1897 and is one of the largest and oldest independent merchants in the UK. The family-run company has a reputation for excellent customer service and strong technical ability, supplying to the commercial and industrial mechanical services sector.

Speaking on the new distributorship, Midea UK's managing director Steve Robinson said: 'We are delighted to announce our partnership with Smith Brothers Stores. This strategic move has been carefully planned over the last year to ensure it complements our existing successful route to market, further strengthening Midea’s market share.

'The company has an exceptional reputation in our industry and a strong family heritage which aligns perfectly with our passion to support customers not only win new business but retain business if they help and encourage the long-term care of our products. They will be offering Midea equipment with all the exclusive benefits of a Mi Pro installer partnership, including 10 year warranties and refrigerant contributions. We are looking forward to building a long-lasting relationship.'

Zach Wynne, head of acr at Smith Brother Stores commented: 'We are pleased to be embarking on this new and exciting partnership with Midea across the UK. Midea is a growing success in the UK market and offers some truly unique differentials for the contractors and end user alike. We feel this is a great fit for our expanding SBS network and it’s a fantastic addition to our supply partnerships nationwide. Exciting times ahead of us both!'

Both companies attended the Etihad Stadium, the home of Manchester City Football Club, to sign the official distributor agreement. Midea is an Official Partner of Manchester City – awarded the most innovative sports team in the world – which gives the Midea brand great global visibility and exposure in the UK.

Alongside existing regional distributors Freedom Air Conditioning and Air Conditioning Accessories, the appointment of Smiths Brothers Stores completes the national distributor network for Midea HVAC equipment. All Midea distributors have extensive experience within the air conditioning industry and offer class leading levels of technical support and after sales service. Midea believes the new distributor network, working alongside the Midea direct sales operation, provides unbeatable levels of service to contractors, specifiers, and end users.

www.mideauk.co.uk