Sunderland tech firm to create jobs following premises expansion

A Sunderland automation and robotics firm is set for growth with the creation of new jobs following the expansion of its base.

AR Controls, which supplies robotics and technology to the likes of Nissan and Jaguar Land Rover, has expanded into a new 12,000 sq unit space in Sunderland’s Sunrise Enterprise Park.

By signing the lease of the new premises, the firm has expanded its existing estate, which includes its 18,000 sq ft Sunrise Enterprise Park headquarters as well as a further base in North Hylton.

AR Controls also plans to increase its headcount by up to 35 per cent in the next 18 months, in order to meet a growing demand for its products.

Andrew Ramsey, managing director of AR Controls, said: “Despite many negative projections about the UK’s automotive manufacturing sector, the growth our business has seen over the last two years is incredibly positive and I’m tremendously excited about the future.

“Our sustained growth has given us added confidence to continue building and developing the business and I’m delighted to have completed the lease with the option to buy these new premises, which will help us to continue our trajectory of expansion.”

The company was assisted in its negotiations by commercial property lawyers at North East law firm Muckle LLP.

Giles McCourt, associate in Muckle LLP’s real estate team, added: “AR Controls is a highly innovative business and their creativity, confidence and commitment to the region has been rewarded by increased demand for its market leading services and we’re excited to support Andrew and the team as the business continues to grow.

“As a commercial lawyer, who lives in Sunderland and works for a law firm that is passionate about the region’s businesses and its economy, it’s fantastic to see such a dynamic North East company making its mark in the automotive manufacturing tech sector.”