Automation and robotics firm collapses into administration

Administrators have been appointed to a Worcestershire automation firm, bringing more than 35 years of operations to an end.

63 staff were made redundant at QM Systems on Friday (July 19), after the business suffered from significant cashflow pressures.

QM which designs and manufactures automated production lines and test systems for aerospace, automotive and rail sectors, partnered with major firms such as Airbus, JLR, Panasonic, Bentley and Siemens.

Originally founded in 1987, the business grew to operate from a 45,000 sq ft state-of-the-art automation hub at the Hartlebury Trading Estate

Matthew Haw and Diana Frangou of RSM were appointed as joint administrators, and are considering options for the company but are seeking a buyer for the business and its assets as a going concern.

They will also look to sell off the company’s assets for the benefit of creditors and to support customers in the transition of existing product lines.

Matt Haw, restructuring advisory partner at RSM UK and joint administrator, said: “Due to a number of unexpected factors, the company faced significant cashflow pressures which resulted in the directors appointing administrators in order to protect the creditors and employees’ interests.”