Special machines, robotics, automation and the more general development of skills and interdisciplinary integration between mechanics, electronics and IT: this is the beating heart of Telerobot, a holding company based in Genoa, Liguria. Figures show that since its creation in the 1990s the firm has grown both in number of employees (currently between 120-130) and in turnover, which has reached approximately 30 million Euros. We asked David Corsini, CEO of Telerobot, what the firm has achieved, which international markets they prefer and what are their projects for the future.

Mr. Corsini, what is the key to your success?

First of all, our human resources. We have a large number of skilled, motivated and willing personnel working in our firm. Another important aspect is our relations with clients: we prefer to be seen as partners rather than suppliers, because we believe this is closer to the idea of a synergetic relationship.

How important are foreign markets for Telerobot?

80% of Telerobot’s turnover comes from foreign markets and this figure, more than any other, shows how important they are. However, I believe that is the same for most companies in the technology sector: there are a lot of opportunities, but they are nearly all abroad. For example, we have opened one branch in Slovakia (to cover the Eastern European market) and one in Turkey. We are currently purchasing a Brazilian company in order to achieve a better position in the South American market.

Which are your preferred markets?

Eastern Europe (Poland, Slovakia) and Turkey. Then Brazil and Mexico.

Which markets will you be investing in for the future?

Certainly in South American countries, which have had enormous growth including in infrastructures. Working in the auto components sector, we are expecting impact across the sector in the US market, following the recent acquisition of Chrysler by Fiat.

During the global economic crisis Telerobot recorded an increase in turnover. What made this growth possible?

We gritted our teeth and went on the attack. Our growth was also thanks to recourse to a private equity fund, which helped us raise our capital from 5 to 30 million Euros.

What sets you apart from your competitors in Italy and abroad?

First of all the fact that we have a pretty complete range of technology, integration and development skills. There aren’t that many truly “global” competitors, only a few sectorial competitors. Then there is another factor: Italy is the homeland of automatic machines, and therefore a lot of our competitors are Italian – however, not all of them are ready to move abroad to meet client demands. For the large business groups that we rely on for orders, it is fundamental to have a single contact for all their markets.