Independent. Uncompromising. Trusted Worldwide. Hydraulics Online started with a simple conviction: the hydraulic industry could do better – and we’ve now proven it.
From an Idea to a Global Brand
Back in 2004, we set out to challenge the product-led status quo of fluid power – cutting through complexity and putting customers ahead of catalogue codes.
While others sold parts, we solved problems – delivering independent, purpose-built solutions that simply work. Whether our customers were planning for tomorrow, engineering for it, or needed something yesterday – we were ready.
Today, we’re trusted by customers in over 130 countries, recognised as a UK Government Export Champion – an honour unmatched in our sector – and proud to be the hydraulic partner of choice for businesses of every size, from start-ups to global names.
Leadership with Vision
Hydraulics Online was founded by Mark and Helen Tonks – two people with a shared belief that the fluid power industry could do better. With deep roots in engineering and strategic business leadership, they built a company that puts people before products, and solutions before sales targets.
Their vision continues to guide Hydraulics Online today – driving innovation, championing independence, and delivering impact on a global scale. In 2024, Helen was awarded an MBE in The King’s Birthday Honours List for services to business and exports – recognition that reflects not only her leadership, but the values and ambition that define the company.
What Makes us Different?
We’re not just another hydraulic supplier. Here’s what sets us apart – and why customers around the world choose to work with us.
- We’re Independent: Not tied to any one brand, we offer impartial advice and solutions designed around what’s best for you.
- We’re Internationally Proven: With customers in 130+ countries, we simplify international trade and deliver wherever hydraulics are needed.
- We’re Experts: From complex system design to urgent part sourcing, we bring decades of hands-on hydraulic experience.
- We’re Recognised: We’ve been named a UK Government Export Champion every year since 2019, and our co-founder, Helen was awarded an MBE for services to business and exports.
Customer Service that sets the Standard
Customer service isn’t a strategy. It’s in our DNA. At Hydraulics Online, we’ve always believed that sourcing hydraulic equipment and solutions should be quick, easy, and customer-led. From day one, we’ve built our business around delivering a first-class experience – wherever in the world our customers may be.
That commitment runs deep. We’re proud to hold ISO 9001:2015 certification, awarded by the British Standards Institution, and to have been recognised with the Customer Commitment Award (B2B) at the UK Customer Satisfaction Awards 2024 – the UK’s most prestigious celebration of service excellence.
We don’t just meet expectations. We raise them. Every day.
Our Mission, Vision and Values
Everything we do is guided by a clear purpose, a bold vision, and values we won’t compromise on.
Our mission is simple:
Offer personal service, impartial technical advice and unrivalled choice. Every time.
Our vision:
To be the world’s leading independent provider of fluid power solutions – an agile ‘hub’ connecting a fragmented, product-led marketplace.
Our values are uncompromising:
- Customer-Centric: We listen first. Then we deliver.
- Collaborative: We work with you – not just for you.
- Innovative: We challenge assumptions and explore what’s possible.
- Trusted: We do what we say. Every time.
What Drives us Forward
Everything we do – every service, every decision, every connection – is shaped by the needs of our customers and the values we stand for. We’re working towards a future where fluid power is easier to access, easier to trust, and easier to get right – for everyone.
Explore the people we support, the principles that guide us, and the impact we’re proud to make:
- Customer Testimonials
- Case Studies
- Design Consultancy
- Hydraulic Brands Portfolio
- Fluid Power Technical Knowledge Hub
- Our Work in the Community
Hydraulics Online are the only company we’ve come across where we are able to give them these problem scenarios and they come back to us with a solution. They have a vast knowledge of their technology and of system design and, because they are independent and not tied to any one manufacturer, I know they are giving us the best solution and the best products for that solution.
Whether you’re designing something new, fixing something old, or just not sure where to start – we’re here to help. No pressure. Just honest advice, expert insight, and a team that’s ready when you are.
