Machinery builders urged to ‘China proof’ their operations

Automation specialist PP Control and Automation has warned UK machinery builders that they need to protect themselves against the growing threat of Far East replicas.

Tony Hague, managing director of PP Control and Automation, believes firms need to act now to ‘China proof’ their operations if they are going to maintain or increase market share in Europe and the US.

He is calling on more companies to review their operations and look at outsourcing non-core competences as a way of reducing lead-times, optimising quality and making their offer more cost-effective.

“Copying some of the basic machinery processes is helping rivals in Asia deliver replica OEM machinery – in a wide range of markets - that deliver a level of performance that is typically less effective than the European manufactured models,” explained Mr Hague.

“However, they are offering these machines at a significantly lower cost resulting in many of the end users seriously considering their purchasing options.”

He continued: “The return on investment is still hugely important, but the gap is shortening and UK manufacturers need to take this into consideration. And the response needs to be quick; complacency and lack of investment has not helped the trend. It’s time now to take back the advantage by innovating processes, products and marketing.”

PP Control and Automation www.ppcanda.com