Oxford Flow secures external investment to digitalise water distribution networks

Oxford Flow, the flow control equipment specialist for oil, gas, water and industrial process industries, has announced that GF Piping Systems, a division of Georg Fischer (GF), has made an initial investment into its water and industrials business to access new technology in support of GF’s innovation strategy.

Oxford Flow, which uses technology developed at Oxford University, will use the investment to accelerate the company’s transition to a fully self-sustained business. The investment will also act as a catalyst for a further capital raise from its existing investors. The funding will see the company scale up its R&D, business development and operational activities as it extends its global reach.

The Oxford Flow pressure regulating valve is one of the company’s key innovations; developed to support the water industries to deliver continual supplies of potable water and meeting ever-increasing standards for water quality, leakage control and other levels of service. The development of the intelligent valve further enhances Oxford Flow’s reputation of providing the most advanced automation and digitalisation solutions to support the water industries’ vision of creating truly smart water networks.

Joost Geginat, President of GF Piping Systems, says: “This investment partnership marks an important step for us and will drive additional innovations. Oxford Flow’s technology will help reduce non-revenue water from operators’ distribution networks. By adding this technology to our portfolio, GF Piping Systems strengthens the resilience of the entire water management cycle and addresses the need for safety, reliability, efficiency and hygiene in the distribution of this valuable resource.”

Neil Poxon, CEO of Oxford Flow, added: “Never before has GF invested in a technology organization like us. It signals a shift for the utility sector; the sector is demanding more smart systems and we are pioneering them. This funding is a massive vote of confidence in our team, our technology and the bright future ahead. Innovation is in our DNA and together with GF, we believe we can make a remarkable impact on the way water and gas distribution networks are managed globally.”