Lantek — a provider of software and solutions for the sheet metal and fabrication industries, with a UK subsidiary in Malvern — achieved a turnover of 19.25 million euros in the fiscal year 2018 — a 10% increase when compared to 2017.

Its client base also continued to grow, with 1,886 new clients increasing the total number to 21,884 (in over 100 countries on five continents).

The 2018 results reflect the consolidation of Lantek’s international business, which represents 86% of the company’s revenue.

The markets that progressed best last year were Germany (+32%), followed by China (+30.7%, where Lantek is the number-one supplier to laser machine manufacturers), and the USA (+11.3%).

The company (www.lanteksms.com) said the significant increase in personnel over the course of the last year was due mainly to its strong commitment to strengthening leadership and supporting the digital transformation of the sector, as well as its expectation of greater growth in coming years.

Last year, Lantek allocated 2.56 million euros to R&D+i investment — a figure well above the sector average and 38% higher than 2017.

The focus was on the launch of new manufacturing solutions to support sectors that included auto, aeronautics, energy, shipbuilding, agriculture, boiler making, metal construction, steel making, air conditioning, metal furniture and distribution.

The company says it expects to achieve double-digit growth in 2019.