Liverpool-based robotics integration company CNC Robotics has announced its shock closure after 16 years.
The business was founded in 2010 by Jason Barker and pioneered the use of industrial robots as an alternative to traditional machine tools.
His wife, Madina Barker, was the managing director and previously took part in a roundtable discussion with former Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
Writing on LinkedIn, Jason Barker said: “Well, it’s been a fantastic journey and sad to see CNC Robotics close.
Happier times: Madina Barker, of CNC Solutions, outside 11 Downing Street
“What made it special was the people, the team, the clients, the suppliers, the partners… in fact (the) whole ecosystem.
“The whole team had a hug today as we closed the doors for last time. This might be the end of an era, but not the end of the talented people who made us great. Onwards and upwards to everyone.”
Failure to secure investment
His comments followed an earlier statement from CNC Robotics announcing it was closing after failing to secure investment.
The statement read: “For 16 years, CNC Robotics has been our passion, our livelihood and, for many of us, a significant part of our lives. It is with deep sadness that we announce that the company will be closing.
“Like many manufacturers across the UK, we have faced increasing pressures from rising costs and a challenging economic environment.
“Over recent years, we have worked tirelessly to secure investment and create a sustainable future for the business.
“While significant opportunities emerged, they did not come to fruition in time to secure the company’s long-term viability, leaving us with no option but to cease trading. This decision has not been taken lightly.”
The statement continued: “From humble beginnings, we have delivered some of the most complex and technically demanding robotic machining, additive manufacturing and automation projects in the UK and worldwide.
“We have helped customers solve difficult engineering challenges, introduced new technologies and developed capabilities that have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in advanced manufacturing.
“Beyond the projects themselves, our greatest achievement has been the relationships we have built along the way.
“We have been fortunate to work with outstanding customers, suppliers, technology partners, universities, industry bodies and fellow manufacturers who have supported our journey and shared in our successes.
“Together, we have created a community built on collaboration, trust and a shared passion for innovation.
“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who has been part of the CNC Robotics story.
“To our employees, past and present, thank you for your dedication, skill and commitment.
“To our customers, thank you for placing your trust in us and allowing us to be part of your most ambitious projects.
“To our suppliers, partners and supporters, thank you for your collaboration, loyalty and belief in what we were striving to achieve.
“Our talented and dedicated team will now be seeking new opportunities. They represent a wealth of expertise across robotics, automation, engineering, manufacturing and operations. If your organisation is recruiting, please share your vacancies.
“While this chapter is coming to an end, we remain incredibly proud of the legacy of CNC Robotics and the impact the business has had on the people, organisations and industries we have worked with over the past 16 years. Thank you for being part of our journey.”
Tributes
Steve Banton paid tribute to the company’s owners. “Jason Barker and Madina Barker built more than a business, they built an environment where innovation flourished and ideas no matter how crazy were turned in to a reality,” he said.
“Losing CNC Robotics from the UK Robotics market is a HUGE loss and I am genuinely gutted I won’t see their work continued.”
Rachel Flood-Jones, who was a project manager at CNC Robotics, said: “It has been an amazing and very happy 22 months. Thank you Madina and Jason, what an adventure! I don’t know what I am going to miss the most. The team, the camaraderie, the projects, our customers or the daily scrum! Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey.”