Rotamec is an electromechanical services provider for rotating equipment. Founded in May 2000, the business has grown over 20 years from two employees to 64 working across three branches located in Cheddar, Exeter and South Wales. It specialises in the repair and sourcing of pumps, motors, gearboxes, generators, and power transmission components.

Here are Simon’s essential strategies for ensuring long-term success.

Simon highlights that manufacturing success involves constant adaptability, especially when dealing with supply chain complexities. Government import regulations, unexpected costs, and delays are frequent hurdles. He notes: “The biggest challenge we face with the supply chain is actually obtaining the product itself. Things don't wait — but we often have to.”

To counter these delays, Simon’s team has relied on building robust relationships with suppliers who maintain strong stock levels in the UK. As he explains: “We chose to work with suppliers that had the largest stock holdings in the UK... until the situation improved.” This approach not only streamlined their operations but minimised dependency on fluctuating international supplies.

From lathes to pressure chambers, investing in technology is at the core of Rotamec’s approach to maintaining efficiency and reducing costs. The company has invested heavily in specialised equipment, including an advanced system for tracking supply chain needs in real time. Rotamec also holds some unique equipment, including a one-of-a-kind pressure chamber.

This strategic approach enables the business to direct work efficiently across branches, eliminating the need to duplicate expensive equipment and allowing each location to develop a specialisation.

Rotamec enhanced its workflow by incorporating tracking technology in its vehicles, helping the company optimise logistics and lower its carbon footprint. The tracking system integrates a database of customer locations, allowing the nearest team member to reach a job site quickly, saving time and reducing emissions.

“The tracking system enables us to pinpoint the nearest engineer to a job site, ensuring faster response times and a more efficient service. This approach reduces unnecessary mileage, significantly cuts emissions, and optimises resource allocation, ultimately enhancing both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction,” Simon adds.

Talent acquisition and retention are critical issues for manufacturers. Rotamec tackles this by working with local colleges to develop a talent pipeline through T-level work experience and apprenticeships.

“We start with the schools,” Simon says.

"Students can begin their journey at Rotamec through work experience, which serves as an introduction to the industry. Those who progress to apprenticeships benefit from a comprehensive development plan that combines hands-on learning with academic study.

“This includes day-release sessions at a local technical college, enabling them to gain a recognised qualification while simultaneously earning and developing practical skills on the job.”

Simon says there are generally at least three students working their way through an apprenticeship at Rotamec and achieving a thorough grounding in all aspects of the trade.

Each apprentice is appointed a highly experienced mentor with on average 20 years’ experience and knowledge behind them in the industry, ensuring their skills and experience are passed.

"We’re creating a talent pipeline to keep the right people for 10-20 years," Simon explains.

Growth isn’t solely about expanding operational capacity; it also involves identifying strategic acquisition opportunities. Simon’s acquisition strategy centres on finding firms that match his company’s purpose and are geographically close to their existing customer base.

“We seek businesses led by owners looking for a seamless exit strategy, ensuring a smooth transition and operational continuity,” he says. Additionally, leveraging collective buying power enables his company to secure better deals from suppliers.

With a commitment to sustainable growth, Simon’s approach demonstrates that becoming “future-ready” is a blend of adaptability, strategic investment, and careful resource management. As Simon states: “We want to expand the business while staying true to the proven strategies that have brought us success.”

His insights remind us that a future-ready manufacturing firm is one that invests not only in technology and talent but also in the core values that make a business resilient, says Laura Capper, our Head of Manufacturing & Construction.

“Rotamec exemplifies the key characteristics of a future-ready business: prioritising supply chain resilience, embedding sustainability into operations, leveraging technology for efficiency, and fostering talent through targeted development programs,” Laura says.

“Their focus on building strong local supplier networks, adopting greener logistics solutions, and collaborating with educational institutions provides a practical model for how manufacturing firms could navigate challenges and drive sustainable growth.

“It’s been a pleasure to build a long-term relationship with such a forward-thinking business.”

Actionable tips from Simon Brooks

• Focus on strengthening local supplier relationships, and consider suppliers’ stockholding capacity. This can be a reliable buffer against unpredictable import delays and costs.
• Invest in technology that enables real-time data on fleet and inventory management. These systems could improve scheduling, reduce operational costs, and minimise environmental impact.
• Tracking systems reduce both travel time and emissions, helping companies work faster and more sustainably.
• Collaborate with educational institutions to foster a long-term, skilled workforce, tailoring training to the specific needs of your industry.
• When evaluating acquisitions, focus on alignment in culture and supply chain synergies. A firm with similar operational methods is easier to integrate, and bulk purchasing capabilities could quickly boost profitability.

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