Lancashire-based Belgrave & Powell Ltd, a specialist engineering services group, has launched a new robotics and automation venture within its Machine Technology Group division.

Addison Robotics & Automation, will focus on the growing trend for automation and robotics to improve productivity and manufacturing efficiency in the UK and overseas.

The Machine Technology Group, based in Preston, employs over 50 people and comprises machine design and build, robotic demonstration and applications areas as well as panel build, a full equipped tool room and machine shop combined with skilled engineers from electrical, mechanical and tooling disciplines.

MTG managing director Paul Ward said: “The investment in the provision of robotic and automation services alongside our conventional machine tool and tube bending business is a complimentary field of expertise that we are ideally placed to offer existing and new customers in the aerospace, automotive and general manufacturing industries.

“We hold key relationships with a number of leading robotic primes and as such offer a great resource for customers to draw upon to improve their manufacturing processes.”

The investment will focus on the development of MTG’s Preston site which is a key location for group activities comprising 22,000ft² with the latest CNC machine models for tooling manufacturing as well as machine build, commissioning and testing.

MTG’s engineers provide their machine tool and automation services globally to leading international customers in manufacturing and this investment further strengthens the group’s position in key industrial sectors.

For more information please visit the website (www.addisonrobotics.co.uk).