Sastra Global Business Innovation (SGBI), a robotics company from Kochi, Kerala, has announced plans to invest £8 million (Rs 90.17 crore) in the UK over the next three years. The announcement was made by British Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds on the UK Government’s public sector information website following his visit to Delhi.
First South Indian Robotics Firm to Invest in the UK
This marks the first investment in the UK by a robotics company from South India. SGBI, previously known as Sastra Robotics, was founded in 2023 by three young engineers. The company specializes in robotics and AI solutions for device testing.
Expanding Robotics Innovation and Job Creation
SGBI’s investment is part of a broader £100 million investment in the UK from various Indian firms. According to Reynolds, this expansion will enhance robotics innovation and development while generating 75 jobs in the UK.
Export Success Drives Investment Decision
SGBI CEO and co-founder Aronin Ponnappan confirmed the investment decision was influenced by a successful export order in October 2023. The company delivered 150 testing robots to a UK public sector department from its 5,000-sq-ft facility in Kalamassery, Kochi, which employs around 40 people.
Growing as a Global Robotics Leader
From a small startup in 2013 at Startup Village, SGBI has evolved into a global leader in robotics and AI-driven testing solutions. The company expanded globally in 2021 through SGBI Inc US, with headquarters in the US and subsidiaries in the UK and India.
Strong Market Demand for Testing Robots
CFO and co-founder Akhil Asokan stated that the decision to expand further in Europe is based on the growing demand for testing robots. SGBI serves major clients, including Robert Bosch, HCL Technologies, Honeywell, Qualcomm, ABB, and Tech Mahindra.
UK Attracts Indian Investments
British Trade Secretary Reynolds, who visited New Delhi and Bengaluru in February 2025 along with British Investment Minister Poppy Gustafsson, noted that Indian investors are particularly interested in AI, professional services, and textiles. SGBI’s investment highlights the strong economic ties between India and the UK.
