Brown Machine Group Expands Automation Portfolio by Acquiring aXatronics Robotics Division

Thermoforming equipment manufacturer Brown Machine Group (BMG), headquartered in Beaverton, Michigan, has announced the acquisition of the robotics capabilities of automation specialist aXatronics, based in Loveland, Ohio. BMG delivers thermoforming equipment, tooling, and automated material handling solutions for plastic and paper products under the Brown, Lyle, Nalle Automation Systems (NAS) and Freeman Company brands. The aXatronics team will now operate within NAS and will manufacture and support aXatronics equipment from the NAS facility in Knoxville, Tennessee. Former aXatronics president Dave Whelan has joined NAS as Director of Robotics.

As a certified Motoman Robotics Strategic Partner, aXatronics has a proven track record in designing high‑level mechatronic solutions for complex manufacturing processes, especially in commercial and industrial packaging. Its portfolio includes stackers, loaders, product handlers, case packers, and custom robotic end‑of‑arm tools. By integrating NAS’s automation systems with aXatronics’ robotics, BMG can offer customers a truly turnkey packaging manufacturing solution.

BMG CEO Greg Wolf stated, 'Our focus is laser‑sharp on our customers’ needs. This acquisition closes a critical gap in our automation portfolio, enabling us to deliver the most innovative equipment and fully integrated turn‑key solutions tailored to our clients’ challenges.'

aXatronics gained national recognition when it received Yaskawa Motoman’s North and South America Innovation Award in 2014 for pioneering the first robot capable of tying a ribbon bow around a boxed product worldwide. As a strategic partner of Yaskawa America Inc., aXatronics has developed versatile robotic solutions, from palletizing 200 distinct case sizes on a single robot to providing multi‑robot systems for a Fortune 100 steel container manufacturer. The company also specializes in bespoke end‑of‑arm tooling that empowers other integrators and manufacturers.

Together, BMG and aXatronics are poised to set new industry standards in automation and packaging excellence.