In a significant move for the UK's technology sector, Stockport-based specialist IPEC Limited has agreed to be acquired by the global electrification and automation group ABB. The firm, which was originally spun out from the University of Manchester, is renowned for its advanced systems that detect major electrical faults before they cause catastrophic failures.
From University Lab to Global Player
IPEC was founded in 1995 by Dr Colin Smith to develop round-the-clock partial discharge monitoring technology. These systems are critical for protecting infrastructure in utilities, heavy industry, and other vital sectors by identifying electrical insulation problems at an early stage. What began as a venture focused on the utilities sector has grown into an international operation, with the company now employing more than 70 people across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States.
The acquisition will see IPEC integrated into ABB's worldwide Electrification Service division. Dr Smith, IPEC's Managing Director, stated that the backing of the industrial giant would be transformative. "The support of ABB means we will not only be able to expand our solutions to wider industries and markets, but we will also benefit from an increased capacity to develop our technology," he said.
AI and the Future of Predictive Maintenance
IPEC's core expertise lies in turning complex monitoring data into actionable insights. For decades, the firm has refined algorithms and, more recently, incorporated artificial intelligence and machine learning to create meaningful diagnostics from partial discharge data. This technology is a perfect fit for ABB's mission to advance predictive maintenance—a strategy aimed at slashing unplanned downtime by up to 90% and reducing associated costs by 85%.
Stuart Thompson, President of ABB Electrification Service, highlighted the staggering cost of downtime in critical industries, from data centres losing millions in revenue to the safety risks faced by hospitals and utilities. "By turning complex monitoring data into clear, actionable insights, we're enabling businesses to shift from reactive repairs to predictive maintenance," he explained.
Deal Supported by North West Advisors
The transaction was facilitated by prominent North West professional firms. Business advisory firm DJH Manchester provided key support, with Client Services Director Natasha Millward leading the advice to IPEC's shareholders. She was assisted by Lewis Pearson, Heeral Ruparelia on corporate finance, and Connor Smith on tax structuring.
"We are delighted to have supported Colin and the team at IPEC," said Millward. "It has been such an exciting period for the business over the last 18 months and their passion is truly inspiring. We are really looking forward to seeing the next phase of the journey."
Legal advice to the IPEC shareholders was provided by Charlotte Mills and Faizan Nayyar from the corporate team at North West law firm Bermans. Mills praised the IPEC team, noting that ABB's enthusiasm for the acquisition was a testament to the quality and dedication of everyone involved in building the successful business.
ABB, a Swiss-Swedish multinational with 110,000 employees and 2024 revenues of $32.9 billion, is poised to leverage IPEC's specialised technology across its vast global network. This acquisition marks a new chapter for the Manchester-born innovator, positioning its cutting-edge predictive maintenance solutions for accelerated growth and far greater industrial impact.
