Worcester-based Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd (www.mazakeu.co.uk) has reported achieving a record order intake in 2015, driven by strong growth across all machine types.

Richard Smith, managing director UK & Ireland sales division, said: “2015 was another record order intake in the UK across the entire machine range, but I would specifically pick out very strong results in horizontal machining centres, Integrex and our UK-built five-axis machines such as VariAxis.”

Mr Smith confirmed that machine orders from the oil and gas sector dipped, but this performance was balanced by other sectors. “While we have seen a decline in oil and gas due to market conditions, this has been more than compensated for by strong growth in the aerospace and automotive sectors.

"What is particularly pleasing is the continued robust performance of our sales into the general sub-contracting market; we’ve picked up a lot of new customers taking their first steps into CNC machining with our entry-level machines.”

Mr Smith also reported a record year for laser machines: “2015 was a real breakthrough year for laser in the UK, and on the back of strong growth, we took a decision to further bolster the laser sales team. In particular, we’ve generated real traction with the general sub-contracting sector.”