Mike Cairns

Background

About Mike Cairns

Founder & Owner | Storage Equipment Integration & Automation Specialist | 29 Years Driving Innovation in Storage & Logistics Founder and owner of Thistle Systems, an innovative, dynamic storage equipment integration and automation company, built and evolved over the last 29 years. We specialise in providing clients with best-in-class automation solutions across diverse sectors — energising the storage and logistics industry through smarter, safer, and more efficient systems. Driven by a passion for helping clients improve safety, maximise capacity, and increase throughput, I’ve lead our business to become a trusted partner for organisations across the UK and beyond. Many of our clients have stayed with us for our entire history — a testament to the long-term trusted relationships we build and the results we deliver. What makes us different is not just our technology, but our unique and friendly culture. We treat our clients and suppliers like partners and, often, like friends. That approach has allowed us to grow consistently, adapt to industry change, and stay at the forefront of storage and automation innovation for nearly three decades. Experience Founder & Owner Innovative Storage Equipment Integration & Automation Company Thistle Systems 1996 – Present (29 years) Built and scaled a business delivering integrated storage and automation solutions across multiple industries, including defence, aerospace, food & drink, e-commerce, health & beauty, and whisky maturation. Pioneered the adoption of automated storage, picking, and retrieval systems, supported by proprietary in-house software. Delivered measurable improvements for clients in safety, storage density, and operational efficiency. Fostered a culture that values long-term partnerships, innovation, and trust, resulting in client relationships lasting decades- Skills & Expertise Storage & Automation Solutions Integrated Systems Design Robotics & Logistics Technology Business Growth & Client Partnerships Defence, Aerospace, and Supply Chain Automation Leadership & Entrepreneurial Strategy