A Queen's Award winning robotic and automation specialist based in Cheshire has been sold to German business Schauenburg International Group.

Schauenburg has taken a majority stake in Astech Projects, which is based in Runcorn. Following the deal, Astech's founders and directors will remain with the business as its managers and co-shareholders.

"We are delighted about the opportunities that will arise from Schauenburg’s investment in Astech," said Chris Hansford, Astech co-shareholder and managing director.

"Joining the Schauenburg Group allows us to maintain our operational independence whilst benefiting from a wealth of management experience.

"We’re proud of our achievements in laboratory and industrial automation over the last 20 years and feel this is the right choice for the next phase of Astech's growth in our current markets and beyond. Our shared passion for innovation and quality means that we’ll make a strong team."

Schauenburg International develops new activities in the fields of robotics and automation applications for advanced manufacturing and regulated industries.

Geldards acted for Schauenburg on the deal.