Scunthorpe-based CP Automation, a drives, automation and power quality specialist, has expanded its European presence by opening an office and warehouse in the South of France. The facility is part of the company’s long-term commitment to support customers and suppliers in mainland Europe.

Located in Capendu, it is ideally positioned to supply its partners in Southern Europe. The new office will be the second global location for the company, joining its South African facility as well as its three UK-based offices. CP Automation is a specialist in the supply of power quality, elevator and crane products, so the 2,500ft² facility includes 2,000ft² of warehouse space — and there is space for further expansion in the future.

Operations will largely mirror that of CP Automation’s successful Scunthorpe head office and its Bedford facility. Despite some companies relocating entirely to mainland Europe in response to Brexit, CP Automation has decided instead to expand with a new location.

The company says its UK locations remain vital to the business. Bedford will continue to serve as the Magnetek centre of excellence for the elevator and crane markets, while Scunthorpe will be the centre of excellence for power quality and variable speed drive (VSD) peripherals.

Tony Young, CP Automation director, said: “As a company we are always adapting, looking for ways to streamline our operations and make our business more efficient.

“However, this expansion onto French soil wasn’t a ‘nice-to-have’, it was a real business necessity. Despite Britain sealing a post-Brexit deal with the European Union, the need for the new office has arisen due to the problems importing and exporting associated with Brexit.

“With our new space in France, our routes to European markets will be easier without the red tape associated with shipping via the UK. This move strengthens our supply chain, allowing us to provide our expert customer support, speedy parts sourcing and competitive pricing that our customers have come to know us for.

“Our UK offices remain essential to our business, but this new office in France really safeguards our operations and should give our partners peace of mind.”