Cheshire-based HMK Automation Group (www.hmkdirect.com), which provides automation solutions to a range of industries, has undergone a management buy-out — led by managing director Gary Kitchin with funding provided by NatWest.

He said: “HMK has experienced rapid growth in recent years. We have seen our turnover more than treble, as we have expanded into the growing robotics market, so this deal will allow us to further accelerate our growth strategy.

"Between us, the management team have clocked up more than 60 years’ service with the company, so our customers can be assured that HMK is in safe hands.

Automation is a booming industry and we pride ourselves on not only delivering market-leading products but also providing an unrivalled level of expertise.”

HMK, which employs 37 people at two sites in Congleton, was established in 1979 and expanded into the robotics sector in 2017, supplying collaborative robots that are designed to work alongside people, making automation easier than ever before.

For over 25 years, it has partnered with Siemens.

Mr Kitchin said: “Siemens is undisputedly the leading name in technological innovation, and our focus now will be on continuing to strengthen our partnership to deliver its world-class technology to our customers, alongside the expert knowledge of the HMK workforce.”

Outgoing CEO Carl Krajewski — son of company founders Heather and Mark Krajewski — will continue as a non-executive director of the business.

He said: “I am delighted to pass the HMK baton on to our experienced management team, and I look forward to the next generation of innovation, development and growth.”