MSIF invests in touch screen furniture firm
THE MERSEYSIDE Special Investment Fund (MSIF) has bought into a company that has designed a range of touch screen furniture.
Knowsley-based LifeSize Touch has come up with interactive coffee tables and desks under its Kio brand.
It already counts IBM, Schuh Footwear, Goldsmiths Jewellers and Powys County Council as customers.
MSIF said the investment will provide working capital to help secure new contracts, recruit talent and invest in a national publicity campaign.
LifeSize Touch was set up by managing director Sheena MacKenzie and employs two other staff – sales and marketing manager Robert Findlay and interactive designer Mark Hope. The company expects to create a further 10 jobs during the next two years.
Ms Mackenzie said: “Businesses are keen to use touch technology, but the choice in the past has been limited to iPad’s or standalone upright kiosks which are slightly anti-social. It was time for more options and our social furniture will bring new form and function to seating areas where people can relax, dwell, eat, drink and interact.
“Our touch screens work underneath a protective glass layer, which makes the technology in our furniture secure, spill proof, hygienic and extremely aesthetic. In addition to our standard range, we can also make bespoke designs, such as different wood veneers, Formica colours or corporate branding to match existing interiors.”
MSIF investment manager Chris Walters said: “We believe there is significant growth potential for LifeSize Touch. The company has already secured some impressive contracts across a range of sectors and has also begun to attract interest from potential customers abroad.”
