Powerwall

"Rather than develop our own plants abroad, we set out to licence our technology in other countries. But we realised we could only convince other people to adopt the system if we could show we were making money from it ourselves."

Wishaw-based Powerwall's structural steel frame allows for sustainable buildings to be constructed almost entirely offsite, saving money and waste and reducing carbon emissions.

The industry has now begun to realise the potential of Powerwall's products and, with the support of Scottish Development International (SDI), the company is spreading its technology internationally with the use of licensing deals.

The Powerwall system achieves carbon ratings that are 10 to 15% more efficient than new legislation demands. The frame is 85% more thermally efficient than traditional constructionmethods, and CO2 emissions during manufacture are up to 70% lower. Costs and timescales are also highly attractive to customers.

Increased international presence

The company increased its potential in Scotland with the support of Scottish Enterprise - including a Regional Selective Assistance grant - but decided to increase its international presence through a system of licensing rather than setting up its own bases.

Powerwall's global sales director, Joe Pacitti, said:

"Rather than develop our own plants abroad, we set out to licence our technology in other countries. But we realised we could only convince other people to adopt the system if we could show we were making money from it ourselves.

"We’ve targeted markets that were sensible for a young export company – places where the culture and business practices were similar and the market was well established, such as the US and Canada."

SDI's support has been critical in targetting these markets and helping Powerwall raise its international profile. Five international licences have been secured in the space of just a year, with the company's strategy now aiming for an increase of turnover from £8 million to £70 million in five years.