GF to enter strategic partnership with innovative British startup company
GF Piping Systems, a division of GF, has signed a partnership agreement with Oxford Flow Limited., based in Oxford (UK). Its innovative pressure-regulating valve allows utility companies to reduce water loss, a major problem around the globe. As part of the agreement, GF will acquire in two steps a 23% minority stake in the company.
Due to aging infrastructure, non-revenue water (water that never reaches the customer due to leakages or other infrastructure problems) is a worldwide challenge for water utility companies both from sustainability and cost perspectives. The majority of utilities suffer water losses of between 20-50%, with annual revenue lost due to water leakages amounting to USD 14 billion.
One of the most effective solutions to reduce non-revenue water is the proper management of pressure in the water pipelines. Oxford Flow, a startup company founded in 2015 by a team from the Oxford University (UK), has developed a new pressure-regulating valve that can be used in various end markets. Part of the strategic partnership is an exclusive license for GF Piping Systems to manufacture and market Oxford Flow's pressure regulating valve in the water utility segment. Additionally, Oxford Flow and GF Piping Systems will collaborate to drive innovation in pressure management. Together with the existing product portfolio and upcoming innovations, GF Piping Systems will be able to offer its customers integrated solutions to help reduce water losses in the future.
The partnership is an important step for GF Piping Systems and will drive additional innovations. Oxford Flow’s technology will help reduce non-revenue water from operators’ distribution networks. By adding this technology to GF Piping Systems' portfolio, it 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.
As part of the agreement, GF will acquire a 23% minority stake in the company until 2021. Both parties have agreed not to disclose any financial details of the transaction.
GF Piping Systems is a leading supplier of piping systems made of plastics and metal. The division focuses on system solutions and high-quality components for the safe transport of water, chemicals and gases, as well as corresponding services. The product portfolio of fittings, valves, pipes, automation, and jointing technologies covers all applications of the water cycle.
GF to enter strategic partnership with innovative British startup company
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GF comprises three divisions: GF Piping Systems, GF Casting Solutions, and GF Machining Solutions. Founded in 1802, the Corporation is headquartered in Switzerland and present in 33 countries with 142 companies, 56 of them production facilities. GF’s 14’678 employees generated sales of CHF 3’720 million in 2019. GF is the preferred partner of its customers for the safe transport of liquids and gases, lightweight casting components, and high-precision manufacturing technologies.
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