HRL aims to rise with its robots after deal

SMD has secured the acquisition of the business and assets of Malton-based Hallin Robotics, (HRL) from Hallin Marine Subsea International, for an undisclosed sum.

HRL develops robots that can carry out work in places that are too dangerous for humans.

It has developed remote systems which are used in nuclear

decommissioning. It also specialises in the offshore and underwater market.

HRL employs five staff in Malton, North Yorkshire and two in Seascale, Cumbria, who will work under the SMD Robotics banner. Stuart Parkes, the business development manager at SMD Robotics, said the firm planned to expand by hiring more staff in Yorkshire. He hoped the business would employ up to 30 staff over the next five years.

SMD, based in Wallsend, near Newcastle, provides subsea vehicles and deck equipment, serving the oil and gas, telecoms, renewable energy, scientific and defence markets.

Andrew Hodgson, the chief executive of SMD, said: "The subsea market has led the way in developing remote systems that reduce the risk in hazardous operations, while increasing efficiency. With the demand in the decommissioning market for both nuclear and oil and gas significantly growing we hope to achieve a position of leadership in this market."

Mr Hodgson added: "I am delighted to have gained a high quality, experienced team who understand the sector requirements well.

"SMD is experiencing significant growth across all markets, and we look forward to growing the team at SMD Robotics to support our expanding business."

Joanne Leng, director of business development at NOF Energy, the business development organisation for the oil, gas and energy sectors of which SMD is a member, said: "SMD has identified the importance of broadening its appeal to the wider energy sectors and, through this acquisition coupled with its already established reputation in the energy sectors, will become an attractive supplier to the nuclear decommissioning market."