ACE Issue 29 2021 | Page 15

of the manufacturing sector ’ s response has been a greater acceptance of the potential benefits of automation , particularly in facilitating a growth in productivity . With more businesses than ever before open to the idea , ALS Mechatronic witnessed an increase in people reaching out for expert advice .
Andrew explains : “ Typically , we ’ ll get approached by a customer with a fairly open-ended question , such as ‘ what is the best way to get my product to its final destination ’? We then set to work on providing an answer , which means visiting the site and identifying the problems . From that point we can outline a solution – whether that ’ s a conveyor system or other machinery that will pick and place the product – and ultimately help them to understand if automation / robotics is right for them .
“ It ’ s then a case of getting the ball rolling with designs and budgets . Once approved , we work alongside FANUC to provide the optimum machinery for that particular application .
Work with FANUC With an extensive portfolio of robotics solutions , FANUC is a logical partner for ALS Mechatronic to work alongside . As Oliver Selby , Robotics Business Development Manager at FANUC UK explains , it is a working relationship that is built on a dedication to delivering the best results :
“ Andrew and the team at ALS Mechatronic work closely with their customers , which makes it much easier to identify which product is best for the end-user . We ’ re always eager to ensure the most appropriate solution is provided , rather than simply specifying according to price . When you consider the significant impact that automation can have on a business , it is vital that you get it right , and this is something that both FANUC and ALS Mechatronic is committed to .”
Andrew continues : “ The other key aspect to working with FANUC is the name itself . They ’ re one of the leading automation companies , and that helps to put customers ’ minds at ease – especially if it is their first experience of automation . Ultimately , everyone benefits from this kind of thorough approach that delivers tangible results . It ’ s not just that one business that it positively impacts , but if we can help to change attitude
Andrew Steward - ALS Mechatronic
to automation , then the manufacturing sector as a whole is stronger as a result .”
Queen ’ s Award for Enterprise The latest chapter in the success story of ALS Mechatronic is the awarding of a prestigious Queen ’ s Award for Enterprise . Given in recognition of excellence in international trade , it is indicative of the role that the company has played in delivering automation solutions not just in the UK but worldwide .
Andrew comments : “ We ’ ve witnessed fivefold growth over the past three years , notably in the US market . We ’ re absolutely delighted to have been given the Queen ’ s Award because its representative of the direction that we , and indeed I hope UK manufacturing as a whole , is headed . The latest technology is there to help businesses grow , and our job is to help them take advantage of that .”
Despite its international success , ALS Mechatronic remains a true British success story . With manufacturing and development set to remain in the UK , it highlights the appetite for high-quality British ‘ solutioneering ’ on the world stage .
Andrew concludes : “ Following a period of time that has created untold damage to many companies , it is great to see the signs of recovery in our sector . We firmly believe that automation is key to a strong manufacturing industry , and by working alongside FANUC we are confident in being able to deliver the best solutions for our customers .”
For more information , please visit : https :// alsmechatronic . com / and https :// www . fanuc . eu / uk / en
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