An Oldham-based fire protection equipment manufacturer is investing in advanced robotics to automate its operations.
Founded in 1969, R Tindall Fabricators manufactures and distributes the pipework for fire sprinkler systems, supplying approved contractors who then install the systems across a range of buildings, including warehouses, offices and retail stores.
Founder Joe Yearn and co-owner Aaron Khan have used a £1.8m Capital Import Loan and Hire Purchase Facility from Lloyds to acquire three robots that will be integrated into R Tindall’s operations next year. These machines will be able to detect and correct defects and will completely automate R Tindall’s grooving, welding, milling and cutting processes – potentially doubling the business’ output.
By making its operations much more efficient, R Tindall expects to reduce both its operating costs and carbon footprint. Alongside this, it will free up time for its staff so they can focus on maintaining the quality of its product and upscaling the business as it looks to grow into Europe’s fire protection market.
This is just the latest investment the business has made in its operations. Earlier this year, it also used support from Lloyds to expand its Oldham headquarters and purchase semi-automated machinery that halved the business’ energy usage while doubling its output.
Off the back of this, the business has since been able to expand further by opening a distribution centre in Maidenhead, taking its overall footprint to 45,000 sq ft and creating more jobs in the sector, with its total number of employees increasing to 92.
Aaron Khan, strategic and operations director at R Tindall Fabricators, said: “We’re always looking for ways to make sure our operations remain at the cutting-edge of what’s available in our industry. So when we spotted the chance to further automate our operations with these robots, we knew it was one we couldn’t afford to miss.
“Once again Garry and the team at Lloyds were a huge help in allowing us to achieve our ambitions. These new machines will not only ensure we can sustain our current plans but will give us the potential to build on them and further supercharge our growth down the line.”
Garry Birchall, relationship director at Lloyds, said: “The ambition and determination that R Tindall continues to demonstrate is nothing short of remarkable, and it was a pleasure to help the business take the next step on its growth journey.
“Recent advancements in technology will leave many manufacturers wondering how they can reap the rewards, and R Tindall is leading the way when it comes making the right investments to drive efficiencies that improve its operations and reduce its environmental impact. It’s an exciting time for the business and I look forward to continuing to watch it thrive in the coming years.”
