NEW TECHNOLOGY KEEPS TRUCKS ON TRACK

18th October 2006

An innovative new piece of software could increase security and efficiency at car parks and distribution centres, thanks to backing from Merseyside Special Investment Fund’s Liverpool Seed Fund.

SLR Technology Solutions enables the super-efficient tracking of cars, trucks and produce, combining different media – cameras, software and unique identifier codes such as number plates and RFID. RFID - stands for Radio Frequency IDentification. It typically is a tag (a small device) which is placed on a product, animal or even a person which enables the object to which the tag is attached to be identified. A good example is the Mersey Tunnel Fast Tag system.

In a car park, the driver could book a space through the internet or mobile phone in their car, not only increasing customer service but allowing better use of space by the car park operator – it also features, for security purposes, a fingerprint solution.

In distribution centres, SLR software would identify a truck on arrival, and track where it is, what it is carrying, when it is leaving and where it is going – ensuring a much smoother and more secure system for both production facilities and service providers.

Stephan Willigens, managing partner of SLR Technology Solutions, says: “The benefits include a head count at distribution centres – this will increase efficiency of turnaround, prevent theft, aid just-in-time deliveries and avoid penalties for not delivering on time. Our estimates show that customers will benefit from around £60-£100,000 per installation. In the car parks, it will allow for better utilisation of the space available, creating more revenue streams and better service for customers.

“Our other advantage is that we are flexible – we produce software, not hardware, so it can be adapted to suit the system that the client has.

“We relocated from Germany to Liverpool and have found the Liverpool Seed Fund incredibly supportive - easier to work with than other similar organisations and more co-operative in their approach to new ideas.”

SLR Technology Solutions received almost £80,000 of funding to complete its Proof of Concept phase – where the viability of the product and potential market demand is assessed. Management predict a £2.5m turnover within the next three years.

Janet Butler, Business Consultant at Liverpool Ventures, said: “SLR Technology Solutions has the potential to make a real difference to their target market. We were delighted to help them demonstrate that through their Proof of Concept phase.”

Darren Gowling, investment director at the Liverpool Seed Fund, said: “SLR combines cutting edge technology with satisfying a real need in the market place. We see great potential in their product and its place in Liverpool.”

For further information contact Angela White at Merseyside Special Investment Fund on 0151 236 4040 or Angela.White@msif.co.uk

Ends

Back to Liverpool Seed Fund News and Deals

Back to News and Deals

Photo shows Stephan Willigens, managing partner of SLR Technology Solutions.

Back to Liverpool Seed Fund News and Deals

Back to News and Deals