RML Machinery took centre stage at the 2025 Waikato Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, earning both the Supreme Award and the Innovation Award for its advancements in automation technology.  

Judges described RML as an exemplar of Waikato innovation, integrating technical excellence with substantial commercial results and a profound impact on the local community. Behind these achievements lies a vibrant, passionate team whose energy and determination were palpable at the awards. 

The focal point of the accolades of RML is their cutting-edge Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), locally designed to meet the needs of New Zealand manufacturers. Judges highlighted the AGV platform as a standout achievement: technically sophisticated, user-focused, and crafted for the local industry’s unique challenges. Their success is powered by adaptive algorithms and advanced safety systems, setting RML apart from imported competitors and cementing its status as a leader in engineering capability.  

CEO Daryl Joyce says credit belongs to the whole team: “For a bunch of engineering, production and finance types, it was a pretty overwhelming experience. To have homegrown recognition for what we do means everything to our people and helps us attract good talent, especially the bright, fresh minds coming out of our amazing local universities and colleges.”  

Recognition at the awards is more than a trophy for RML – it’s validation of the company’s investment in people and workplace culture. They were also a finalist in the People and Culture category. 

“We recruit in a certain way. Our chief people officer Sarah Tordoff has been a big part of shaping how we teach and inspire new team members. If someone is enthusiastic and loves what they do, we give them the chance to learn and thrive,” Daryl explained.

The average age of staff is just 34, and the company is committed to fostering team members to ensure they have a deep talent pipeline that keeps the team fresh, driven and will support customers for decades to come. 

The talented team are behind the AGV technology developed by RML which generated $2.5 million in revenue in just 18 months, driving productivity gains of up to 30% for customers. Case studies showcase reduced labour dependency, improved workplace safety, and dramatic operational efficiencies.  

As Daryl puts it: “We spend a lot of time talking with our customers about how we design solutions for them. You see their eyes light up… we’re passionate about delivering products that genuinely change the way they work and grow their businesses.”  
 

The company’s combination of strong data, collaboration, and a drive to make a difference has established RML as a trusted automation partner for household name companies.​ 

Judges credited RML with embedding innovation into its DNA, from product development through to after-sales support and hands-on client training.  

Looking back, Daryl reflects on the importance of “putting ourselves out there”. 

“It takes courage to enter and share your story, but the process helped us articulate who we are, why we do what we do, and celebrate our success as a team instead of just moving straight onto the next thing.”  

The five-year plan of RML has paved the way for a new growth phase, including next-generation AGVs and partnerships lined up for next year.  

“Next year’s going to be bigger again,” Daryl says, proud of a company that is “always striving to build a great team, continuously improve, and ensuring we have the infrastructure for continued customer success”. 

For a finalist in the People and Culture category as well as a double award-winner, the Supreme title was the ultimate honour.  

“When you look around that room, and at the past winners, we had no idea we’d be considered for the Supreme Award. We’re very proud, and more determined than ever to keep pushing what’s possible for our own people, for New Zealand innovation, and improving our customers productivity.”