More than 15 jobs have been saved as a proud Somerset-based engineering business, long favored by the Royal Family, has been rescued from the brink of collapse.
SFM Technology Ltd, a historic fruit machinery manufacturer with over 40 years of experience, entered administration amid cash flow difficulties. However, the company has now been acquired by Bramley Precision Aerospace Ltd, which has taken on its assets, goodwill, and intellectual property.
Founded in 1985 as Somerset Fruit Machinery, the firm originally specialized in designing and manufacturing bespoke fruit harvesting machines for apple and blackcurrant growers. Over the decades, it earned a reputation for producing high-quality agricultural engineering equipment, supplying customers across the UK and internationally.
In 2012, SFM Technology was honored with a Royal Warrant for supplying fruit harvesting machinery to the royal household, a testament to its outstanding quality and standing.
In later years, the company diversified, expanding into aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors. Leveraging its expertise in design and fabrication, SFM developed advanced capabilities including CAD design, prototyping, CNC machining, laser and waterjet cutting, welding, fabrication, 3D printing, and complex assemblies. It served prominent aerospace and defense firms as well as clients in specialist engineering fields.
Bramley Precision Aerospace Ltd, led by directors Graham and Emma Bramley, seized the opportunity to preserve this esteemed business. Bramley Engineering, their family-run company, designs and manufactures bespoke cranes and lifting equipment for utilities, transport, and civil engineering sectors.
The new ownership will continue operations from the existing Martock site under two distinct brands: Bramley Aerospace, focusing on advanced aerospace engineering, and Bramley Harvesting, maintaining the fruit harvesting machinery legacy.
Graham Bramley commented, “Businesses like SFM are built on people, skill, and decades of expertise. We saw a proud Somerset engineering firm with a remarkable heritage, a talented workforce, and great potential. Our priority is ensuring continuity for customers and confidence for the team in Martock.”
Emma Bramley added, “We understand the dedication needed to run a specialist engineering business and the responsibility of safeguarding skilled jobs and valued customer relationships. We are proud to carry SFM’s legacy forward, staying deeply connected to the Martock community and supporting the local economy.”
Bramley Precision Aerospace plans to stabilize and grow the business, deepen supplier partnerships, and explore new opportunities within aerospace and specialist engineering markets. The company is also actively recruiting new talent, including an office manager, CNC operative, and design manufacturing manager, to support the expansion of the Martock site.
Graham Bramley concluded, “We want customers to know the expertise they rely on remains strong. We want staff to feel appreciated for their skills. Most importantly, we want Somerset to recognize that a vital chapter of its engineering history has been saved. Our commitment is to build on SFM’s strengths and create a positive future for all connected with this business.”