US-based Southwestern Industries is the developer and maker of the ProtoTRAK control, which is the cornerstone of the XYZ Machine Tools’ range of equipment - ProtoTRAK revolutionises the way companies manufacture one-offs and small batches. The ownership change took place on 13 June.
XYZ Machine Tools began life 32 years ago with just £3,000 of capital. Since then and under the guidance of Atherton, the company has grown to become a £30 million-plus turnover business, claiming to be, probably, the largest supplier by volume of CNC machine tools in the UK.
“The deal with Southwestern Industries in 2006 was perfect for the business as it gave us the backing of not only a significant owner and partner, but the business retained a large degree of autonomy. In effect, not much changed to the outside world. Throughout these 10 years, I have retained my enthusiasm for the business and when presented with the offer to buy back the business it didn’t take me very long to say ‘yes’.
“At 54 years old, I have no intention of retiring and now that XYZ is back fully under my control, I am going to be like a dog with a bone and, along with the fantastic team of people here at XYZ, drive the business forward.”
The relationship with Southwestern Industries will continue as before.
