The British Automation & Robotics Association (BARA) and the Processing and Packaging Machinery Association (PMMA) have amalgamated in a move aimed at strengthening the UK supplier base, as robotics and automation systems continue to grow in importance.

The move will provide access to technical support from the PPMA’s membership and will also strengthen links with government, industry, financial and academic institutions in promoting the use of robotics and assist in their development.

Chris Buxton, ceo of PPMA, said: “Combining the strengths of both parties gives us a real opportunity to address the technical, commercial and environmental challenges faced by industry.

“Among the benefits offered by robotic systems are greatly improved productivity and the flexibility demanded by customers through the automation of manual tasks, often in less floor space; while a single robot can do the work of multiple machines.

“Automation and robotics help to create higher output and quality, have hygiene benefits, and are flexible enough to change to the demands of retail customers.”

BARA will become an integrated sub-group of the PPMA, have its own council of representatives and a director of automation and robotics.

The associations believe that the resources of the two associations - people, knowledge and finance - will make a real difference to the promotion of the technical advantages of robotic solutions to the end user community.

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