Automation and robotics firm expands overseas following UKSE funding

A Birmingham-based automation and robotics specialist has expanded its export operations after securing funding from UKSE.

Mechatronic Production Systems, which operates from Kings Norton Business Centre, received £200,000 from the business finance provider to support its growth plans.

The company supplies factory production systems and robotic process automation to automotive, industrial, medical device and aerospace customers worldwide. It approached UKSE in 2024 for funding after finding it difficult to secure investment from mainstream banks.

Managing director Tony Parker-Watkins said: “There is no doubt a lot of manufacturers have put the brakes on spending on capital investment, which impacts us, as they absorbed the costs of increased National Insurance payments and other changes such as the export tariffs but things picked up for us from the spring onwards.

“We reapplied our focus outside of the UK and have picked up significant projects for customers in the EU and Asia. We are committed to serving customers in the UK but we have been able to make the most of these opportunities further afield.

“We have recruited two new people and the business is on target and structured to achieve growth. Our focus is now on building our overseas new business pipeline as there is plenty to fight for.

“The funding from UKSE has enabled us to capitalise on these opportunities. We are looking to recruit, subject to the work in the pipeline being secured.”

UKSE’s board of directors visited Mechatronic during the summer to see how the investment was being used.

Parker-Watkins added: “The feedback the directors gave was very positive as they were pleased to see innovation in action with our work in industrial automation. We have a monthly call with the local UKSE team, who have been supportive since we borrowed the funds.”

UKSE provides loan and equity packages of up to £1m to support growth and job creation. Its team, based at Keys Business Village in Cannock, works with SMEs across Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Staffordshire and Telford.

The lender has operated nationally since 1975. Investment activity in the West Midlands is led by Midlands area manager Steve Grice and regional executive Mike Lowe.

Grice said: “We are pleased to have seen Mechatronic make strides forward despite the challenging economic environment. Even though the going has not been favourable, Tony and his team are taking a global view to unlock new opportunities which benefit not just their business but the wider West Midlands economy.

“By working with specialist, highly skilled businesses like Mechatronic, UKSE can deliver on its mission of enabling businesses and the people behind them to create jobs, grow and prosper.”

UKSE was introduced to Mechatronic by Andy Moss of Ricosta Capital.

Moss said: “It has been great to see Mechatronic use the support to deliver further success in the West Midlands. Their progress since they received their funding is an example of a well-run business making the most of the opportunities ahead of them.”

Image credit: UKSE