International celebration marks unveiling of new engineering headquarters

An area of the factory was transformed into an exhibition space with displays of products that are sold by the X-STK distribution division. The automation experts demonstrated the Universal Robots collaborative robots and Secomea, a secure remote access solution for machine builders. Suppliers including SMC Pneumatics and Omron also set up stands, showcasing their latest products to guests.

As part of the official ceremony, VIPs from key partners unveiled a plaque at the engineering centre, marking a major milestone in the company’s expansion.

Managing Director David Rowe said: “It was a really exciting day for us. Buying and refurbishing the factory was a significant investment for Applied and it paves the way for our ambitious growth plan. We’re expanding our teams and our customer base, adding new products lines and entering new markets. 

“We have a broad portfolio and the event was an opportunity for our customers and suppliers to look around the new factory and see the scale of the business. I’m delighted that so many people travelled such long distances to share in our celebration and toast our future success.” 

Applied Automation moved into the new factory last year after an extensive refurbishment of the building. The site is 140,000 square feet and more than double the combined size of the two factories previously occupied by the company. 

Mr Rowe added: “We had outgrown the two sites were used to occupy. We wanted to bring the teams together under one roof to strengthen collaboration between divisions and we desperately needed more space. Although moving here was a big jump in size, this factory gives us some room to grow and we don’t want to have to move again any time soon.”

Founded in the 1980s with three staff in a small unit, Applied Automation originally made control systems for industry. While engineering remains the core business, the firm’s divisions now span a range of activities including profile assemblies, bridge systems for superyachts and home automation. The business exports worldwide across Europe and to China and the US.