Smart buildings tech firm wins six-figure investment to continue growth strategy

A Preston firm specialising in smart buildings and remote monitoring solutions has secured a six-figure investment to drive growth.

Origin Control Solutions has received the investment from NPIF II-FW Capital Debt Finance, which is managed by FW Capital as part of The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).

The firm is using the funding to accelerate growth through further research and development.

This is an integral part of Origin’s expansion strategy which involves the development of new technologies to enhance their current service offerings and enhance their IoT (Internet of Things) eco-system.

The funding is also helping to create three new roles in the technical and administration departments.

Smart buildings use technology to communicate and control systems like lighting, heating, and security. They can be more energy efficient, adaptable, and secure than traditional buildings.

Founded in 2016 by Peter Rawlings, Origin delivers smart technology solutions which enables customers to have total remote monitoring of their assets and buildings.

All sensors and controls are available in a single cloud portal, giving customers total control and transforming workspaces into intelligent, sustainable environments.

Origin has developed its own software platform and Cloud app which provides clients with an IoT dashboard that allows them to access and control live data delivery.

The company aims to harness the potential of data collection within buildings and spaces to drive efficiency, identify enhanced workspaces and deliver substantial cost savings for businesses.

Origin CEO, Peter Rawlings, said: “Our innovative platform is helping many businesses to reduce costs, improve uptime, and support sustainability commitments.

“We’re constantly striving to deliver more and this investment from NPIF II-FW Capital is helping us to implement our growth plans.

“Research and development are an integral part of our success and access to this working capital means we can innovate further.”

He added: “We have lots of exciting plans in the pipeline to enhance our existing platform, building strategic partnerships, creating greater efficiencies, and ease of use for our clients.”

Steve Molyneux, senior investment executive at FW Capital, said: “Origin are experts in remote monitoring, and I’m pleased to provide the working capital required to facilitate their next stage of growth.

“Our investment will assist both their recruitment drive and further development of the interface and software that underpins their offering.”

Sue Barnard, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, said: “The North West is establishing itself as a leader in many sectors, with tech being one of those. NPIF II has been designed to support innovation and the transition to net zero, and northern businesses like Origin are enabling more sustainable ways of working while also creating jobs in the region.”