Dewsbury robotics firm Sewtec to create 40 jobs as MBO delivers record order book

Robotics company Sewtec has achieved a record £25m order book and created jobs after undergoing a management buyout (MBO) last year.

The Dewsbury-based tech firm said the eight-figure sum, representing the largest order book in its 36-year history, has put it on track to double turnover to £32m by 2022.

Sewtec has increased its headcount over the last 12 months by 20 and now employs 80 people. In the next four years, the firm plans to create a further 40 jobs in the region.

Sewtec designs and manufactures factory automation systems for the businesses in the food, pharmaceutical, personal care and tobacco industries, including multinationals such as Nestlé, Unilever Johnson & Johnson and Procter & Gamble.

More than 85% of the firm’s revenues come from exports.

Sewtec went through an MBO in August 2017 with backing from Leeds-headquartered private equity house Endless.

A management team comprising technical director Gary Day, sales director Paul Johnson and controls director Karl Conqueror led the deal, which saw MD Mark Cook join the business.

Mark Cook said: “Our strong order book demonstrates the outstanding reputation that Sewtec has built.

“There is ongoing demand for the Sewtec brand, services and products, and this has opened up many prospects for us in the sectors and markets we operate in.”

He added: “With a skilled and dedicated team across all areas of the business, we’re in a robust position to continue our growth plan and reach our ambitious goal of becoming a 120-strong £32m turnover business.”

Endless director Andrew Ross commented: “Sewtec has had an exceptional first year following the MBO and goes into its second year of new ownership with real momentum.

“The company has a strong management team, a compelling proposition and enormous potential to expand further in its chosen markets both in the UK and internationally.”

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