XYZ Machine Tools was founded in 1984 by Nigel Atherton, who, after facing redundancy during the 1984 miners’ strike, began his own business offering CNC programming help and training. Recognizing the potential of machine sales, the company shifted its focus to rebuilding Bridgeport turret mills and integrating Acu-Rite DRO systems. In 1985, XYZ Machine Tools acquired its first two turret mills from a Taiwanese company, experiencing unexpected success due to the superior quality of the machines. With initial challenges in securing financial support, the company received a boost from Brian Porter, facilitating the purchase and growth of their product line.
The turning point for XYZ Machine Tools arrived in 1993 when they adopted the ProtoTRAK control system for their mills, significantly enhancing their capabilities for small batch production. The adoption of ProtoTRAK led to a substantial increase in sales over the next five years. In 1994, the company expanded to a purpose-built 10,000 ft² facility in Willand, Devon, which was further expanded within a year due to increased demand.
As XYZ Machine Tools continued to grow, they switched to Siemens controls for their VMCs in 1997, introducing conversational programming, which aligned well with the preferences of their customer base. This expansion continued with the development of turning centres using Siemens ShopTurn software, leading to a further increase in their premises in 1998.
Despite facing the challenges of the 2001 recession, the company’s efficient management ensured profitability and resilience. XYZ Machine Tools continued to grow, introducing its first dedicated five-axis machining center, the UMC-5X, in 2016, and subsequently launching the UMC-4+1 machine. The company experienced record-breaking sales figures in 2019 before facing setbacks due to the combined impact of Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020-2021.
However, the company successfully rebounded, recording substantial increases in sales and profit. In 2022, XYZ Machine Tools expanded its range of Toolroom Machining Centres, integrating the user-friendly ProtoTRAK control into five of its best-selling Vertical Machining Centres. They also opened a showroom in Zabrze, Poland, aiming to expand their European market presence.
Visit their website at xyzmachinetools.com
