Derby medical devices firm to spearhead UK-Texas trade deal
A Derby medical devices firm is spearheading a new UK-Texas life sciences trade deal that the government says will provide direct access to the largest medical complex in the world.
The Department for International Trade (DIT) has announced today (12 September) that it has agreed a landmark ‘BioBridge’ collaboration with the Texas Medical Center (TMC) the world’s largest medical complex – with Derby-based SurePulse Medical one of just two companies which is in the initial stages of engagement with TMC ahead of major presentations to hundreds of investors, industry leaders and hospitals at ‘Demonstration Days’ in Texas.
SurePulse Medical is a joint venture between the University of Nottingham and Tioga and makes vital sign monitoring equipment. The company is based on Mansfield Road in Derby.
The TMC, home to 61 world leading innovators, including the US’ leading cancer hospital, will now offer Surepulse a unique package, says the DIT, which will help boost exports and drive forward scientific innovation.
The US spent $3.3tn on healthcare in 2016, which was 18% of GDP. National health expenditure is projected to grow to $5.7tn in 2026, which would be nearly 20% of GDP.
As part of the deal, British life sciences businesses will now be able to locate themselves at the TMC in Houston, where they will have access to a network of advisors, investors and medical experts from both the Center and DIT.
The partnership will allow for a “significant research collaboration” on a wide range of medical issues, including the development and advancement of Genomics and Cancer treatments.
Speaking at an event to celebrate the launch in London today, Minister of State for the Department for International Trade, Baroness Fairhead, said: “The UK is a world leader in healthcare innovation, and this partnership is clear evidence of the opportunities that exist for our companies in exciting markets such as the US.
“Our recently launched Export Strategy will help even more British life sciences companies to reach new markets – bringing together some of the brightest minds in science to advance the availability of innovative healthcare across the globe.”
President & CEO of TMC, William McKeon, said: “This truly unique collaboration is a testament to the Texas Medical Center’s and the United Kingdom’s joint commitment to further fostering the cross-pollination of ideas, people, and innovation in the life sciences.
“We believe this new relationship will serve to create a tactical alliance between TMC and a nation that has been at the forefront of substantial medical innovation for centuries.”
To celebrate the announcement of the partnership in London, representatives from the TMC and UK partners will meet to discuss further opportunities for collaboration, including foreign direct investment.
