In a landmark shift toward futuristic manufacturing capabilities, Sutherland Presses has announced an ambitious initiative to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) across all its operations. This cutting-edge programme will see the introduction of dedicated 24/7 AI bots assigned to each department and staff member, creating a network of intelligent agents that enhance productivity, improve decision-making and innovate processes.

The transformative approach of Sutherland Presses places AI at the core of its operational matrix. The seamless integration of AI assistants is poised to revolutionise the company’s production line, supply chain management, customer service, R&D, human resources and administrative duties.

Customer service departments will see AI bots handle enquiries, process orders and provide aftersales support around the clock. Through natural language (NL) processing, these bots can communicate effectively, ensuring that customers receive prompt and accurate assistance while freeing up staff to tackle more complex service needs.

AI bots supporting the R&D teams will comb through vast data sets to identify trends and patterns that humans might overlook. By accelerating the design and testing phases, these AI partners substantially reduce time-to-market for new products, effectively keeping Sutherland Presses ahead in the competitive market.

As each department works closely with its designated AI bot, staff members will undergo specialised training to adapt to this collaboration. Far from replacing human workers, these AI agents are designed to augment and empower the workforce, decreasing mundane chores and elevating the human component to strategic problem-solving and creative innovation.

Sutherland Presses says its adoption of individual AI bots represents a significant leap into the future of manufacturing and beyond. AI integration supports the company’s commitment to pioneering advancements, ensuring that every facet of the business operates with heightened intelligence, agility and foresight.

For further information www.sutherlandpresses.com

Vaski Group Oy from Seinäjoki, Finland, a company experiencing robust growth, is expanding through its acquisition of Pivatic Oy, based in Hyvinkää, Finland. The consideration paid marks a significant milestone for Vaski as it continues to strengthen its position in the industry and strives for excellence in manufacturing and innovation.

This acquisition is a merger of equals, where both businesses achieved a record recent order backlog of €11m. After the purchase, combined sales exceed €25m and 100 staff. Notably, Vaski significantly enhances its coil-fed systems business with Pivatic’s focus on coil-fed punching and bending lines for sheet metal processing. Pivatic, which Pivatic is set to celebrate its 50^th anniversary next year, in turn makes a leap forward with Vaski’s focus on coil-feeding technologies.

Vaski managing director Michael Mansour says: “Off the back of significant growth in the Vaski business, I’m excited by this combination, creating a new leader in coil-fed systems, leveraging the multi-coil expertise of both companies and bringing Pivatic’s 50 years of tradition into Vaski.”

Jan Tapanainen, Pivatic CEO, adds: “I’m thrilled to be part of this merger which creates significant cross-selling synergies and a clear vision for both businesses moving forward. Vaski and Pivatic come together to create a coil-fed systems champion and world market leader in our sector.”

In 2023, over 18% of Vaski’s revenue was spent on R&D, demonstrating the company’s commitment to technology advancement. With a shared commitment to innovation and quality, Vaski Group is ready to leverage its expertise in developing Pivatic, particularly in strengthening research and development activities.

For further information www.vaski.com