In November 2023, Reach Robotics celebrated 7 years since its founding in 2016 by engineers and friends, Paul Phillips and Mark Sproule. Armed with a serious passion for advanced technology, the pair built, tested, verified and sold their first robotic actuators from a desk in the corner of a co-working space (recap their startup story here). Flash forward 7 years and Reach Robotics is a thriving advanced technology business headquartered in Sydney with an international team delivering robotic solutions to global markets. Mark reflects on the achievement;
“Paul and I started Reach Robotics with the vision of developing a new class of robotic technology. However in the last 7 years, what I am most proud of is the development of a team who feel empowered, engaged, and proud of the work they do. We have some incredibly exciting projects in the pipeline, and I am confident in our ability to deliver on these as we continue to invest in our people and organisation.”
~ Mark Sproule
To celebrate 7 years of Reach Robotics, we’re looking back at some of the highlights and key moments that defined our business.
Reach Robotics Retrospective
2016-2017 – Diving In 💦
We set out to make the smallest, all-electric underwater robotic arms in the world and succeeded. With the release of our first underwater actuator, Reach Robotics was on the map.
2018 – World Firsts 🏆
We released Reach Alpha 5 (formerly known as Reach 5 Mini) and it was the most dexterous underwater manipulation system at that time. We were awarded funding from the Australian Government to accelerate our efforts.
2019 – Gaining Traction 💨
Intuitive remote operation came with the release of our Master Arm technology. We secured additional investor and government funding, and our sales exceeded 135 units to 11 countries.
2020 – Bigger & Better 🦾
Launching Reach Bravo, a bigger, smarter and more capable manipulator disrupting the remote inspection and intervention landscape. Receiving ISO9001 accreditation recognised our commitment to high standards.
2021 – New HQ 📍
We upgraded to a 500sqm facility to accomodate our growing team and product line. We were awarded additional funding from the Aus Gov and total sales exceeded 450 units
2022 – Reach Rebrand ✨
We adopted the name ‘Reach Robotics’ to better represent our company vision to extend human reach into harsh environments.
2023 – REDEFINING THE STANDARD 🌏
Reach X is released, redefining remote intervention for naval and critical force operators working in harsh, unpredictable environments. We continue to provide best-in-class underwater intervention systems and unparalleled support to our global oceanic community.
As 2023 comes to a close, we reflect on the dedication of our team, and the trust of our clients and network in shaping our past seven years. Designing and manufacturing subsea robotics is no small undertaking and we are proud of the business, team and community we have fostered in our pursuing our company vision.
HOLIDAY CLOSURE
Reach Robotics will be closed for the holiday season from 23rd Dec 2023 – 1st Jan 2024 inclusive. We wish our suppliers, clients and network a happy holiday season and look forward to continue working with you in 2024. If you’re looking for some holiday reading, flip through our latest case studies and discover how our arms are used by clients globally.
