The history of Ajax Machine Tools.
Founded over 85 years ago, during the height of World War II, Ajax Machine Tools was established by George Carter and Donald Walker, naming the company after the renowned British battle cruiser, HMS Ajax.
The company began operations in Halifax, Northern England, manufacturing industrial drilling and milling machines. Many of these original machines are still proudly displayed in our showroom—a true testament to their quality, durability, and reliability.
Ajax initially set out to manufacture drilling and milling machines to support the war effort, establishing a precedent for quality and reliable design that continues to this day.
After the war, Ajax shifted its focus to domestic appliances, including washing machines, which were marketed under the brand name “ADA.” In 1950, a new public company, AJAX Domestic Appliances (ADA), was incorporated specifically to manufacture washing machines and other household appliances.
In 1952, a new machine tool factory was being equipped at Holmfield, Halifax. Once operational, the existing West Mount facility would be dedicated exclusively to the production of ADA washing and ironing machines.
In 1953, the Ajax Machine Tool Company became a Limited Liability Company. Its continued growth and expanded manufacturing capabilities attracted the attention of the Dutch electronics group Philips International, which acquired the company in 1958.
The 1960s brought significant changes, including a relocation to Manchester and the introduction of new products such as Centre Lathes, Turret Milling Machines, and Grinding Machines, further expanding Ajax’s existing range of machine tools.
By 1979, Ajax had established itself in a custom-built facility in Bredbury, Stockport, and became part of the CEI Group within the Specialist Engineering Sector, later transitioning to Grasby Plc. During this period, the introduction of NC (Numerical Control) machines marked the beginning of a technological shift towards CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines in the 1980s. This innovation-driven growth enabled Ajax to strengthen its presence in the global market.
On July 1, 1992, Ajax entered a transformative phase when Geoff Taylor successfully led a management buyout from the Grasby Group, continuing to serve as Managing Director and guiding the company into a new era of independent operation.
In October 2001, Ajax was acquired by the Viking Group of Companies, which also owned Startrite Machinery. Following the acquisition, the company was relocated to Birmingham
In November 2002, Mr. Savin acquired Ajax and relocated the company to Hampshire. Under his leadership, Ajax experienced unprecedented success, driven by innovative product development, competitive pricing, and improved operational efficiency.
Ajax Machine Tools – Evolving with Innovation
In January 2012, Ajax Machine Tools began developing a new range of 3-, 4-, and 5-axis High-Speed Machining Centres, specifically designed to meet the growing demands of the aerospace industry. Equipped with advanced Heidenhain controls, these machines marked a significant technological milestone for the company. The first model was successfully completed and unveiled at an exclusive in-house event in October 2013.
Today, Ajax Machine Tools International Ltd is recognised as one of Europe’s leading suppliers of both conventional and CNC machine tools. We proudly serve a diverse range of UK-based companies and institutions, while also exporting to over 40 countries worldwide.
Our Export Division is staffed by a team with decades of international trade experience. Their combined commercial insight, technical expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit ensure we meet the dynamic needs of the global marketplace with both efficiency and professionalism.
Backed by our dedicated Spares and Technical Support Division, we are committed to delivering a comprehensive and reliable service — with customer satisfaction as our top priority. This customer-first philosophy underpins long-lasting partnerships founded on trust, performance, and results.
Looking ahead, we are actively investing in the future. From training new apprentices to adopting the latest modern manufacturing practices, we are ensuring Ajax remains at the forefront of the industry.
We now also offer an in-house CNC training school, providing hands-on instruction to help our customers train skilled operators — because at Ajax, we don’t just supply machines; we become part of your team, committed to keeping your production moving forward.
Today, our primary focus is on CNC machines, equipped with advanced controls from Siemens, Fanuc, Heidenhain, and Fagor. We take pride in being at the forefront of delivering affordable, high-quality CNC solutions, while also maintaining a comprehensive range of conventional manual machines for customers who continue to value traditional, non-CNC options.