Wearable tech spinout Reactec has been acquired by global health and safety software company Ideagen.
Reactec, spun out of the University of Edinburgh’s School of Engineering in 2001, produces wearable tech for high-risk industries such as mining, manufacturing and construction, helping employers reduce the risk of injuries caused by working with vibrating tools.
Its products, and cloud-based analytics platform, will add to the range of software and solutions offered by Ideagen, which aims to enhance operational performance, address regulatory requirements, and mitigate risk.
Reactec was co-founded by Mark Buckingham and Peter Watson during their PhDs, supervised by Dr Jane Blackford. Dr Buckingham remains as a non-executive director. The University’s in-house venture investment fund, Old College Capital, was an early investor, alongside Scottish investment syndicate Archangel Investors.
In July 2022, the company launched the R-Link smart watch, protecting wearers from risks like Hand Arm Vibration, harmful particulates, and proximity to moving vehicles or machinery. Combined with Reactec Analytics, it provides employers with insights to proactively manage workplace risks.
The company will remain headquartered in Edinburgh.
Jacqui McLaughlin, CEO of Reactec, shared her enthusiasm for this next chapter, saying:
At Reactec, our core mission has always been to protect workers and provide actionable insights that foster healthier and safer work environments.
Becoming part of Ideagen allows us to extend our reach and provide even greater value to organisations that are forward-thinking in their approach to enhancing the health and wellbeing of their workers. ”
Ben Dorks, CEO of Ideagen, said:
This is a significant milestone for Ideagen as we continue to invest in technologies that address real-world challenges faced by our customers.
Reactec’s wearable technology and data analytics are a perfect complement to our portfolio, putting cutting-edge tools directly into the hands of those who need it most. Together, we are setting new standards for workplace safety and risk mitigation. ”
Lizzie Withington, Director of Venture Creation at Edinburgh Innovations, the University’s commercialisation service, said:
It’s fantastic to see a historic University spinout continuing to grow and deliver innovative solutions to industry challenges.
It’s also great to see EI fulfilling its role of getting the University’s ideas out into the world where they can make a difference, with OCC providing early-stage investment when securing funding is most difficult.
Congratulations to the Reactec team and to all who have supported them over the years. ”
