Why legacy matters
In a fast-paced world of tech disruption and shifting expectations, legacy is often misunderstood as outdated systems and technology. But at Labman, we see it differently. Our legacy is about the relationships, experience, and trust we’ve built over decades. It’s about the deep well of product knowledge we draw from every time we take on a new challenge.
For our customers, legacy means working with a team that has stood the test of time, understands the science, and brings proven, adaptable solutions to the table.
Back to the 90s
Rewind to 1992: Labman officially opened its doors as a small team with big ideas, after taking over from Systems Control, which had been creating automation since 1979. Back then, automation in the lab was niche, but we saw the potential. In a modest facility on Stokesley Business Park, our engineers were already pushing boundaries, combining mechanical design with early computer control systems to create innovative lab systems.
Relationships driving resilience
Over the years, we’ve partnered with customers who return to us time and again because they know our systems last, and so do our commitments.
We’ve supported global companies through change, growth, and even complete shifts in their industries. When you know your supplier will still be here 10 or 20 years down the line and will still be there to support your system, that’s real reliability.
Then to now
From the early days of clunky monitors and old interfaces to today’s sleek, cloud-connected software, we’ve come a long way. But while our tools have evolved, our core values haven’t.
We still believe in working closely with customers, in hands-on design, and in building systems that do exactly what they need to do - beautifully and reliably. What’s changed is our capability. Our team has grown, our technology stack has expanded, and our workshop has become a cutting-edge, purpose-built facility - but our mission remains the same: to make labs work better.
Over time, we’ve also evolved our business model. While we’ve always specialised in custom automation tailored to individual customer needs, we now also develop and offer our own in-house products. Systems like TIDAS, MultiDose, and MultiVial are the result of years of learning, refinement, technical excellence and a deep understanding of the market.
Foundations for the future
Legacy isn’t just about the past - it’s the foundation for the future. The lessons we’ve learned over the past few decades are embedded in every project we take on. They guide how we build, how we collaborate, and how we push the boundaries of what’s possible.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to keep innovating with our customers, our team, and with the next generation of engineers and scientists who will help shape the future of automation. Our legacy is just the beginning.