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Applied Integration expands to Fusion Hive with new R&D facility

Stokesley-based Applied Integration has opened its first research and development facility based at Fusion Hive, Stockton’s new multi-million pound business and innovation centre.

The new research base will help the systems integrator to deliver its control solutions, aimed at the oil, gas, petrochemical and food processing sectors.

The research unit will house a number of Applied Integration’s R&D projects, focusing on the development of new systems, increasing the efficiency of current processes and reducing costs and development times.

The firm, which delivers control solutions to the oil, gas, petrochemical and food processing sectors, expects the facility to be a catalyst for growth and development for years to come.

Along with the Ministry of Defence and BAE Systems, Applied Integration’s 35-strong team works with blue chip clients such as ABB, Esterline, Swinton Technology, Phillips 66 and Lotte Chemical UK. The firm’s directors hope the move will help to achieve aims of doubling turnover to around £8m, over the next five years.

Director Garry Lofthouse said: “With the advancements in modern day technology, research and development is becoming increasingly important for companies who want to stay ahead of the game.

“Firms need to become leaner, smarter and more efficient than their competitors. The establishment of a specialist research and development branch is designed to ensure we remain one step ahead in the ever-changing landscapes of today’s global markets.”

Operated by The Forge, Teesside University’s business hub, Fusion Hive at Stockton’s Northshore is a three-storey, 36,000 sq ft business centre, offering state-of-the-art facilities for up to 60 technology companies.

Garry continued: “I believe the new facility at Fusion Hive is the embodiment of the firm’s mission statement, ‘To push the boundaries of technology with innovative and inspiring solutions’.

“With an ever important need for innovation, the facility lays the foundations for our pioneering work. It will provide a stimulus for the firm to become ever more efficient, whilst rising to the very top in the field of industrial automation.

He added: “Our first 10 years have been incredible, but we have no intention of resting on our laurels. Our achievements so far will spur us on as we focus on making our future even brighter than our past, armed with a growing research and development arm.”

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