Japan's Optex group buys UK's Gardasoft Vision

24 May 2016

International security and sensing group adds booming LED lighting specialist to its roster.

Triniti is a new enabling technology from Gardasoft Vision.

Gardasoft Vision has been acquired by Optex of Japan for an undisclosed sum. It will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Optex; the terms and value of the deal were not disclosed.

Gardasoft, based in Cambridge, UK, was founded in 1999 by Peter and Jane Bhagat. The company specializes in the design and manufacture of high performance pulse/strobe controllers for LED lighting and high intensity LED illuminators – offering solutions to the global machine vision and intelligent traffic (ANPR/ALPR) markets.

Its most recent innovation, Triniti, is an enabling technology which provides expert control, operational intelligence and full integration of machine vision lighting – all within a "plug & play" environment.

Gardasoft currently makes the majority of its sales in Europe. In recent years, it has seen has seen “continuing, strong demand in North America and Asia” for its products and technology. Its latest financial statements show significant growth in the past few years with turnover approaching £3 million in 2014, yielding a profit of around £310,000.

Optex Group

Optex Group consists of at least 20 electronics and security equipment and systems companies worldwide, many involved with sensing and photonics-related technologies. The company states, “Throughout our history, we have acquired a diverse range of companies to build a successful multi-brand strategy. These companies generally continue their esteemed business style as it is, and this brings significant benefits to Optex.”

Optex includes the company Optex FA Limited, which serves the factory automation sector, and which has an established business in LED lighting and lighting control systems. With group sales of £180 million (¥28 billion) and a strong position in the worldwide market, it is looking to grow its business and expand its product and technology offering to its global customer base. Optex says this acquisition will allow Gardasoft Vision to extend the applications of its Triniti technology. "Both companies are looking to work together to exploit wider product and market synergies," commented the new owner.

The Gardasoft Vision company management structure will remain unchanged with Hilary Briggs as MD and Peter Bhagat continuing full time with his product and technology role within the business. Gardasoft Vision will continue to trade and promote under its existing name and branding.