Nikon ditches Mark Roberts Motion Control (MRMC)

Ten years after Nikon to take control of British robotic camera systems company Mark Roberts Motion Control (MRMC), the Japanese multinational removes from its portfolio the manufacturer that, on the verge of turning 60, has become a benchmark in the design, manufacture and rental of high-end robotics for audiovisuals.

MRMC, based in Surrey (United Kingdom), has in its portfolio very popular solutions in television and film production environments such as the Milo and Super Milo dolly-jibs, the Bolt and Bolt Mini Model Mover high-speed robotic arms, and the Cinebot series.

Acquired by Nikon in October 2026, MRMC always maintained a certain operational independence within the Japanese group that justifies the operation by stating that “transferring all of our shares in MRMC to MRMC Bidco Limited is the most appropriate measure.” The property will pass into the hands of Blandford Capital, a UK-based venture capital firm. At the moment, everything seems to indicate that Takuei Tsuji, who has led MRMC to date, will continue to lead operations after the acquisition by the investment fund.

At a time when robotic systems are booming due to the increase in virtual production that has found perfect allies in motion control and robotic precision, MRMC will go to NAB 2026 with an independent stand (C5220) where the Cinebot Nano will be exhibited, along with its older brothers, the Cinebot Mini and the Cinebot Max. MRMC will also demonstrate the RPS-LT, a version of the Roaming Pedestal with a Studiobot-LT arm. The RPS is a next-generation free-motion camera platform designed for high-end television studios, and this new system brings MRMC's core technology of robotic arm camera platforms to the mobile pedestal, providing fluid, broadcast-ready motion that allows broadcasters to achieve dynamic and previously difficult-to-achieve camera angles with ease and complete creative freedom.