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At EK Automation Systems Ltd, we’re not just passionate about automation we’re passionate about people. That’s why we were thrilled to sponsor the drinks package at Stockport Rocks, a fantastic community event run by Sector 3, which celebrates and honours local volunteers.

Sector 3 is a hub for Stockport’s voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sector. Their goal? To champion the amazing individuals and organisations that make Stockport such a special place to live and work. Stockport Rocks is their flagship event, an evening dedicated to celebrating the people behind the scenes who generously give their time, energy and heart to support their communities.

We were proud to support this incredible evening by sponsoring the drinks package. It’s our small way of saying “cheers” to the real rockstars, the volunteers. We might design complex control systems by day, but by night we love raising a glass to good company and community spirit.

We’re committed to giving back to the areas that support us, and we believe strong communities are the foundation of a better future, both in and outside of the workplace.

At EK, we believe great support shouldn’t just be fast, it should also be smart, efficient, and sustainable.

That’s why our remote support services are built into everything we do. Whether it's a routine system check or troubleshooting an unexpected issue, our team can often diagnose and resolve problems without ever needing to travel to site.

Thanks to our integrated SCADA systems and well-defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs), we can monitor your automation setup in real-time, identify potential issues early, and provide immediate solutions. For our customers, this means:

• Less Downtime – Fast response and resolution keeps your operations running.

• Reduced Costs – Fewer site visits = lower costs for both you and the planet.

• Smaller Carbon Footprint – Supporting you remotely cuts emissions and makes your automation journey more sustainable.

Remote support is just one of the ways we’re rethinking how automation should work — efficient, responsive, and environmentally conscious.

We’re thrilled to announce our sponsorship of our local cricket club. While you won’t see us out on the pitch scoring centuries (we’ll leave that to the pros), you will spot our banner proudly displayed around the ground and we have to say, it looks pretty sharp!

Giving Back Where It Matters

We believe in giving back to the places and people that shape who we are. Supporting local organisations, whether through charity, partnerships, or grassroots sport, is a core part of how we operate. This sponsorship is just one small way we can help foster community spirit, healthy competition, and good old-fashioned teamwork.

Here’s to a Brilliant Season

To the club and its players — we’ll be backing you every step (or swing) of the way. Thank you for letting EK be a part of your journey this season. We’re proud to support such a dedicated group of people who bring our community together through sport.

We're equally dedicated to reducing our environmental impact and supporting a more sustainable future. Through small, deliberate changes in the way we operate, we're striving to make a big difference. Here’s how we’re putting sustainability into action:

1. Electric Vehicles
Transportation is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions. That’s why our team uses electric vehicles for client site visits and commutes. This shift has already helped us significantly reduce our carbon footprint while maintaining the same high level of service.

2. Remote Monitoring & Support
Our automation solutions are built with remote access capabilities, allowing for diagnostics, updates, and system support without the need for travel. Fewer site visits mean less fuel consumption and reduced emissions, while clients benefit from quicker response times and cost savings.

3. Paperless Processes
We've moved away from paper-based systems, transitioning to fully digital project management, cloud-based documentation, and e-reporting. By reducing unnecessary printing, we save resources and increase efficiency across the board.

4. Employee Awareness & Eco-Friendly Culture
Sustainability is a team effort. We actively encourage our staff to adopt greener habits, including cycling or carpooling to work and reducing energy use in the workplace. This culture of awareness is something we foster both in and out of the office.

Looking Ahead
As we continue to innovate in the world of automation, we’re also focused on evolving how we work to leave a lighter footprint on the planet. Our clients trust us to bring efficiency and reliability to their operations — and we’re proud to deliver that with sustainability in mind.

If you're looking to partner with a forward-thinking automation provider who values the planet as much as performance, let's talk.

#Sustainability #GreenAutomation #EcoInnovation #EKA #IndustrialAutomation #CarbonReduction #AutomationForGood

How We Help You Succeed

Control Panel Design & Build
We create bespoke control panels from concept to commissioning, engineered to meet exacting industry standards and customised to your operational needs.

PLC & HMI Programming
Our engineers craft smart, scalable software solutions tailored to your process requirements. Seamless, secure, and built for performance.

System Integration & Upgrades
Outdated system? No problem. We modernise and integrate new technologies into your existing setup with minimal disruption and maximum results.

Data & IIoT Solutions
Connect your systems to the future. We help you unlock actionable insights through real-time data, dashboards, and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) capabilities.

Ongoing Support & Maintenance
Our service doesn't stop at delivery. We offer comprehensive support and maintenance to keep your systems running efficiently for the long term.

Security You Can Trust

We are proud to be Cyber Essentials Certified, giving you peace of mind that our systems and your data are protected against today’s digital threats.

Why EK Automation Systems?

Innovation is at the core of what we do. With decades of combined experience, our team is passionate about creating smart, reliable, and future-focused automation solutions.

Let’s work together to make your operations smarter, faster, and more efficient.

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your business.

At EK, we work closely with businesses across multiple sectors, helping them unlock the full potential of automation. But even with cutting-edge tools, many organisations are still facing real challenges.

So, we asked:
“What’s the biggest challenge in industrial automation today?”
Here’s what we’ve seen (and heard) as the most common roadblocks:

 1. Old Systems That Don’t Work with New Tech

Many companies are still using legacy systems—older machines and software that don’t easily connect with today’s smart technologies. Integrating these with new platforms can be slow, expensive, or even impossible without a full upgrade. This makes innovation harder than it should be.

2. Not Enough Skilled People

Automation is growing faster than the available talent pool. Whether it’s engineers, technicians, or data specialists, there’s a clear skills gap. Without the right people in place to design, install, and maintain automated systems, progress often stalls.

3. It’s Too Expensive to Get Started

Initial costs—equipment, software, training, and downtime during setup—can be a big deterrent, especially for small and mid-sized businesses. Even if the long-term return on investment is strong, the short-term investment can feel overwhelming.

4. Concerns About Data and Cybersecurity

More automation means more data. And more data means more risk. From cyberattacks to data leaks, businesses are right to be cautious. Strong cybersecurity needs to be built into every solution from the ground up—but not everyone knows where to start.

💬 What Do You Think?

We’re running a LinkedIn poll right now to get your thoughts. Join the conversation, vote, and see what others in the industry are saying:

➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/feed/...

What is IIoT?

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to the network of connected devices, sensors, and systems used in industrial settings. These devices collect and share real-time data, helping businesses monitor performance, predict maintenance needs, and optimize operations.

Why IIoT is a Game-Changer

Here’s how IIoT is making a difference in industrial automation:

🔹 Real-Time Insights – IIoT enables instant access to critical performance metrics, allowing businesses to track efficiency, detect issues early, and make data-driven decisions. No more guessing games—just clear, actionable insights.

🔹 Predictive Maintenance – Traditional maintenance is reactive—fixing problems after they happen. IIoT flips the script, allowing businesses to predict and prevent failures before they cause costly downtime. This means better productivity and lower repair costs.

🔹 Remote Monitoring & Control – With IIoT, businesses can monitor and control machinery from anywhere, reducing the need for on-site presence and improving response times. This is especially useful for multi-site operations or remote facilities.

🔹 Enhanced Security – With cyber threats on the rise, IIoT systems come with advanced security features to protect critical industrial infrastructure. Secure access controls and encrypted communications keep systems safe from potential cyber risks.

How EK Automation Systems Ltd. Can Help

At EK Automation Systems Ltd., we specialize in integrating IIoT solutions that help businesses operate more efficiently, reduce costs, and stay competitive in an evolving market. Whether you’re looking to implement real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, or secure remote access, we can guide you through the process.

What is Cyber Essentials?

Cyber Essentials is a UK Government-backed certification that helps businesses protect themselves against the most common cyber threats. It ensures that organizations have essential security measures in place, including:

• Secure access controls and password management
• Firewalls and network security
• Malware protection
• Software updates and patch management
• Secure configuration of devices and systems

Why Cybersecurity Matters

Cyberattacks can have devastating consequences for businesses. A recent case highlights just how crucial cybersecurity is—logistics company KNP collapsed after hackers gained access to its systems by exploiting a weak password. The attack caused irreparable damage, leading to financial losses, operational disruptions, and ultimately, the company's closure. 

This case serves as a stark reminder that no business is immune to cyber threats, and even a small security gap can have catastrophic consequences.

Our Commitment to Cybersecurity

By achieving Cyber Essentials certification, we are reinforcing our dedication to keeping our systems and customer data safe. This certification provides assurance to our clients and partners that we are implementing best practices to prevent cyberattacks.

How Businesses Can Stay Secure

To improve cybersecurity within your own business, consider these essential steps:

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Regularly update software to patch vulnerabilities
• Train employees on cybersecurity best practices
• Backup important data to protect against ransomware attacks
• Monitor and review security policies frequently

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity isn’t just a technical requirement—it’s a fundamental part of running a secure, reliable, and resilient business. At EK Automation Systems Ltd, we are committed to protecting our operations and customers from cyber threats, ensuring that security remains at the core of everything we do.

Last week, the EK team had the pleasure of attending PG Optimise 2025, a UK-wide Siemens technology showcase event hosted by Parmley Graham. This event was a fantastic opportunity to dive into the latest advancements in Siemens Factory Automation Technology and gain insight into the future of industrial automation.

A Day of Innovation and Learning

The event featured a series of insightful demonstrations and discussions led by industry experts. One of the key highlights was an exclusive look at the SIMATIC S7-1200 G2 controller, Siemens’ next-generation PLC designed to enhance flexibility, performance, and efficiency in automation systems.

Additionally, the launch of TIA Portal V20 was a major talking point. This latest version of Siemens' engineering framework promises improved integration, enhanced usability, and increased capabilities for designing and managing automation solutions more effectively than ever before.

Connecting with Industry Leaders

Beyond the product showcases, PG Optimise 2025 provided a valuable opportunity to network with industry professionals, share knowledge, and discuss the latest trends in motion control, robotics, and smart automation solutions. Events like this are crucial for staying ahead in an ever-evolving industry, allowing us to explore cutting-edge innovations and understand how they can drive efficiency and sustainability in manufacturing and industrial processes.

Looking Ahead

As technology continues to evolve, EK remains committed to integrating the latest advancements into our solutions. The insights gained from PG Optimise 2025 will help us continue delivering high-performance automation systems to our clients, ensuring they stay at the forefront of innovation.

At EK we are always looking for opportunities to expand our network, gain fresh insights, and stay ahead in the world of industrial automation. That’s why Kai and James were excited to attend the Business Growth West Midlands event, funded by the UK Government. It proved to be an inspiring day filled with valuable connections, industry discussions, and thought-provoking presentations.

Engaging with Like-Minded Businesses

One of the most rewarding aspects of the event was the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of businesses, all sharing the common goal of growth and innovation. The networking sessions were insightful, allowing us to exchange ideas, discuss industry challenges, and explore potential collaborations.

Looking Ahead

At EK Automation, we’re committed to continuous learning, collaboration, and leveraging innovation to provide cutting-edge automation solutions. Attending events like Business Growth West Midland. 

Events like these don’t happen without dedicated organizers, and we want to extend our appreciation to Catherine Bray from Oxford Innovation Advice for putting together such a fantastic event.