New Robotics Automation Company Launches To Champion UK SMEs

In a significant development poised to transform the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector, Autrix, an innovative company in robotic automation, has been established with the goal of democratising automation for SMEs throughout the UK.

The company brings together leading figures in robotics and experts from the field of automation, aiming to empower SMEs to achieve global competitiveness through enhanced efficiency, productivity, and innovation. Autrix delivers comprehensive automation services, ranging from initial discussions on the potential for automation, through to the installation and continuous optimisation of automated systems. With a pronounced emphasis on software, Autrix provides strategic advice to assist businesses in identifying the most effective ways to deploy automation to foster their expansion.

Joe Daft, Managing Director and Founder of Autrix, emphasised the significance of empowering SMEs: "SMEs are the backbone of the UK economy, yet many struggle to keep up with larger competitors that have already invested heavily in automation. We started Autrix to give these smaller players a fairer chance, with automation solutions tailored to their needs and budgets, and the expertise to help them benefit as much as possible."

In an industry where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have only adopted automation at a rate of 4%, in stark contrast to their larger counterparts at 28%, Autrix emerges as a transformative force. The global warehouse automation market has experienced rapid growth, achieving a value of $19.78 billion in 2023, with an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.2%. It is expected to continue its upward trajectory, reaching $33.59 billion by 2027, according to the Warehouse Automation Global Market Report 2023.

Autrix's leadership is seasoned with decades of experience in crafting solutions tailored for the SME sector. By dedicating its focus to SMEs, Autrix is positioned to provide bespoke and economically viable automation services. These services are designed to deliver immediate benefits, encourage innovation, and secure a competitive advantage for SMEs.

Ian Shay, Co-Founder of Autrix and Director of L&S Engineers, emphasised the pivotal role of automation in the future of manufacturing and business, stating: “While automation has been essential, resource constraints means that for most SMEs its implementation has been challenging. Autrix aims to change this narrative, becoming an invested automation partner for SMEs across the UK, dedicated to their success.”

With locations strategically positioned throughout the UK, Autrix is well-placed to serve SMEs nationwide. In Birmingham, Autrix operates a live, automated warehouse and service centre where technology partners can demonstrate solutions. The Lincoln office meanwhile, focuses on designing custom automation systems and software to meet specific customer needs.

Autrix works with best-of-breed technology partners, including Hikrobot, VisionNav and ProGlove, to provide SMEs with automated mobile robots (AMRs), robotic arms, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), smart gloves and more. By bundling technologies from multiple vendors, Autrix can provide SMEs with integrated automation systems from single robotic solutions to large deployments of 50+ AMRs tailored to their needs at a lower cost than purchasing from individual technology providers.

Autrix's dedication to democratising automation for SMEs through its tailored solutions, strategic guidance, and commitment to success positions it as a valuable partner for SMEs seeking to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market. Autrix is set to empower SMEs with the knowledge, confidence and tools they need to embrace automation and unlock their full potential.