Solihull laser manufacturer on track to double turnover

A manufacturer of high precision laser-marking systems is on track to double its turnover since opening its first UK base at a leading science park in Solihull.

Lasit Laser UK is on track for year-on-year growth since settling into office space at Blythe Valley Innovation Centre, which is owned by Solihull Council and managed by the University of Warwick Science Park.

The firm supplies high quality, precision laser marking systems for identification marking in a variety of sectors, including vital marking on medical and automotive products. Permanent identification marks are mandatory in many industries for traceability purposes.

Laser marking is also used on a variety of items for aesthetic purposes, such as branding on metallic bottles and other promotional items. Lasit Laser UK supplies its machines directly to businesses that wish to perform engraving in-house.

Its new office at Blythe Valley Innovation Centre includes a demonstration facility, with laser marking systems on site.

Following its move, Lasit Laser UK is set to double its turnover in year one and is set for year-on-year growth and could result in it hiring new staff to add to its team of five.

Barrie Rice, General Manager of Lasit Laser UK, said: “Many of our customers need reliable laser marking solutions to ensure their products are marked to a high standard which enhances the quality of their products.

“For example, in the medical sector, replacement joints must have clear unique marking before they can be implanted into patients. 

“Using below par or incorrect laser technology can lead to corrosion which can cause problems, including the growth of germs or indeed failure of the part, which is unacceptable in the medical industry. 

“Our technology can produce surface marks on titanium, which is still present after a secondary process, such as passivation, which ensures patient safety.

“We use a laser technology called picosecond which means the laser is only in contact with the surface for less than one-billionth of a second. This ensures the marking is permanent but does not change the nano-structure of the material.

“Depending on a customer’s requirements, we can recommend the exact type of laser to give them the quality and precision they need. Our machines are manufactured completely from our own components, meaning we can guarantee both the quality and reliability of our systems. Servicing and technical support is also much simpler compared to our competitors."

The company with its headquarters in Italy, chose to open a UK office at Blythe Valley Innovation Centre thanks to its accessible location and the quality of companies already based there.

Barrie added: “We wanted to be based somewhere central to make it easier to work with companies across the UK and Ireland.

Andy Stewart, Centre Manager at Blythe Valley Innovation Centre, said: “We’re really pleased that Lasit Laser UK has been able to hit the ground running since its move here."

Cllr Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council & Portfolio Holder for the Economy, said: “We are seeing a growing number of international companies, like Lasit, choose to headquarter their UK operations in Solihull."