UK automation company Mechatronic Production Systems (MPS) has announced that it has received £350,000 from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II.
The debt funding, made through appointed fund manager Frontier Development Capital, will enable the business, which specialises in ‘plug-and-play’ robotics, to expand the team at its Birmingham plant and create seven new jobs.
MPS currently employs 35 people, delivering services to clients across industries including aerospace, automotive, medical technology and plastics.
In 2014 MPS launched Robopod, an ‘off-the-shelf’ robotics solution that automates repetitive processes such as assembly, ultrasonic welding, glueing, dispensing, inspection, laser marking and machine tending.
The system now accounts for almost half of MPS’s revenue, which reportedly increased by 35% in the 12 months to March 2024.
Tony Parker-Watkins, managing director of MPS, said: “Robots can now easily take on simple repetitive tasks within factories, improving efficiency and freeing up humans to focus on more skilled and productive work.
“With labour shortages and growing awareness of the potential for automation, our solutions are attracting interest from companies throughout Europe.
“We currently have a strong order book and record sales pipeline. The funding will enable us to expand our production capacity.”
The £400m Midlands Engine Investment Fund II covers the Midlands region and provides debt finance from £25,000 to £2m and equity investment of up to £5m to help a range of small and medium sized businesses.
Innovations and achievements in manufacturing will be highlighted and celebrated at the second annual Robotics & Automation Awards on 06 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.roboticsandautomationawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable industry event – and to book your table today!
