Automation and robotics company expanded
02 August 2007
The huge growth in demand for industrial robots and automated production systems in new markets such as aerospace has prompted Kuka Automation + Robotics to expand their operations and open a new assembly facility.
The 2,260 sq ft factory in Chancel Way, Halesowen, means Kuka have virtually doubled their capacity as they already operate from a similar sized building at their headquarters in nearby Hereward Rise. As well as being used to assemble and test robot cells, the new unit also houses Kuka’s spares centre and after-sales service team. The company confidently expect to increase their workforce in the coming months thanks to a healthy order book.
According to managing director Alan Shilton, the decision to expand Kuka’s operations in the Midlands was also based on the region’s reputation for high manufacturing standards. “We are close to some of the best manufacturers in the world who act as our suppliers and guarantee the quality of our products,” he explained.
“While the robots are made at Kuka’s parent company in Germany, everything else such as the guiding and control systems plus all the physical hardware is sourced from companies that are located close to us. As an organisation, we are committed to procuring locally because we believe it leads to a better product,” he added.
Kuka, established in the UK for more than three decades, have been able to diversify into new areas. While the automotive industry remains an important part of the business, sectors such as aerospace are flourishing.
“Robots and automated production systems are becoming increasingly vital to the aircraft industry as manufacturers and suppliers strive to deliver the volumes required to satisfy global demand. They can efficiently and reliably automate traditional, labour-intensive processes at a time when aerospace component makers are under pressure to find alternative solutions to stay one step ahead of their competitors,” he stated.
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