Robotics deal will make Rovtech 'industry leader'

A Cumbrian-based robotics firm says it has strengthened its position in subsea and harsh environment technologies with a “transformative” acquisition.

Rovtech has announced a seven-figure deal to buy the VALOR remotely operated vehicle (ROV) business from Seatronics.

It adds to a portfolio that already includes advanced robotics and monitoring systems designed for extreme conditions such as deep ocean pressures and radiation exposure.

Bosses say the VALOR ROV will prove to be an “indispensable tool” and “unlock” new markets, positioning Rovtech as “an industry leader”.

Its addition will also see Rovtech’s workforce double to 20, which will now operate across two sites in Aberdeen and Barrow-in-Furness.

John Polson, Rovtech chief executive, said: “The VALOR ROV has provided a step change in what has traditionally been the limitations of an Observation Class ROV.

“With this acquisition, we’re not just expanding our capabilities, we’re looking to set the standard for efficiency and innovation across the nuclear and subsea energy sectors.

“Complementing our current nuclear ROV offering, we are now well-positioned as the provider of some of the world’s most advanced and reliable ROVs on the market.

“I am also excited to witness the incredible potential for collaboration between the two teams going forward, and what this will unlock.”

Rovtech was recently bought by climate tech venture studio Ventex.

Ventex has also invested in Aberdeen-based High Performance Robotics and Australian AI firm Rahd, which is headquartered in Perth, as it looks to invest in early-stage companies with technologies that have “significant potential” to help solve the climate crisis.

Steve Gray, Ventex managing partner, added: “Rovtech’s acquisition of VALOR brings together world-class engineering and manufacturing with technology leadership to create a new leader in robotics for subsea, nuclear and other harsh environments.  

“By applying Rovtech’s full-service product development, prototyping and manufacturing capability to the cutting-edge VALOR programme, we will enable lower cost, safer and lower carbon work for end-users of subsea robotics.”

Stuart McLeod, Ventex managing partner, added: “This acquisition underscores Ventex Studio’s unwavering belief in, and commitment to, its portfolio companies and leadership teams.

“We want to elevate their ability to productise and scale technologies, ultimately positioning them as industry leaders.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →