DiFACTO Robotics and Automation, a leading provider of manufacturing automation and robotics solutions, has acquired an Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) portfolio for the RoboFinish operations of Grind Master.
Founded by Milind Kelkar and Mohini Kelkar, Aurangabad-based Grind Master is a pioneer in metal-finishing solutions for automotive and general engineering industries. Over the past 40 years, their dedication to innovation is evident in their 30+ patents, allowing them to effectively challenge top Japanese & European players. RoboFinish, developed over the last 14 years, includes robotic grinding, finishing, deburring, and machining technologies.
Founded in 2007 by Ajay Gopalswamy, Yogesh Kumar and Anil Satapathy, DiFACTO – backed by StakeBoat Capital, has a proven track record of developing advanced robotic systems and automation services for diverse industries, including automotive, foundry, machine tools, transportation, electrical machinery and consumer goods. The company currently operates two manufacturing facilities in Bengaluru and Pune and a sales and service office in Gurugram. DiFACTO also serves the North American market through its wholly owned subsidiary based in Michigan, USA.
Sameer Kelkar, CEO of Grind Master, said, “We pioneered breakthrough developments in robotic grinding and finishing operations, leveraging our profound domain knowledge. We have successfully delivered over 150 RoboFinish solutions worldwide. We are confident that DiFACTO, a specialist in robotics and automation, will develop these technologies further and take them to a wider spectrum of customers.”
Ajay Gopalaswamy, Founder and CEO of DiFACTO, said, “We are constantly seeking cutting-edge and globally competitive technologies. The RoboFinish portfolio presents significant synergies with our existing offerings, strengthening our position in the market. DiFACTO will continue to support RoboFinish’s existing users through its customer-focused engineering team.”
Srinivas Baratam, Managing Director of Stakeboat Capital, which invested in DiFACTO’s maiden financing round in June 2024, said, “DiFACTO is a leading robotic automation solutions provider to Indian manufacturers across industry segments, and plans to aggressively expand into global markets. Acquisition of RoboFinish technologies bolsters our solution offerings and further expands our global footprint.”
