Start-up Advanced Laser Technology takes space

BUSINESS start-up Advanced Laser Technology (ALT) has secured its first premises and is planning to take on up to eight staff.

The research and development business has taken 4,279 sq ft Unit 9 on Piccadilly Trading Estate in Manchester, which has 11 units and is now fully occupied as a result of the letting.

Andy Backhouse, associate director, logistics and industrial at the Manchester office of Colliers International, let the unit to ALT on behalf of landlord ESN (Scotland) Ltd (SPPS) c/o CBRE Investors.

Roger Hardacre, managing director of ALT, said the business had purchased a state-of-the-art laser system supported by robotic handling and power dispensing systems to develop and pilot a process that would allow customers to develop their own laser systems.

These systems can develop innovative processes to fuse hard wearing coatings on to metal components which operate in a corrosive environment.

Mr Hardacre said: “We are fortunate because we have launched with an initial customer in China, but expect to provide development services for European customers in oil, gas, coal mining, salt extraction and other industries.”

ALT’s initial staff are also engaged on their own PhD research at The University of Manchester.

“Furthermore, we hope to have a research relationship with the University, where we can work together on new challenges in the use of lasers. The location of the factory is advantageous because it is only 15 minutes walk from the laser research centre at the University,” added Mr Hardacre.