UK Establishes Photonics Cluster

Jan. 10, 2003
Birmingham, UK, January 10, 2002. A major step forward into consolidating the UK's position as a global player in optoelectronics has taken place; the Midlands Photonics Cluster and the UK Laser and Electro-Optics Association (UKLEO) have joined forces, integrating all members of the UKLEO into one unified Photonics Cluster.

Birmingham, UK, January 10, 2002. A major step forward into consolidating the UK's position as a global player in optoelectronics has taken place; the Midlands Photonics Cluster and the UK Laser and Electro-Optics Association (UKLEO) have joined forces, integrating all members of the UKLEO into one unified Photonics Cluster.

This merger will provide excellent opportunities for respective members to work together to create a stronger single UK-wide business network for companies within the Optoelectronics and Photonics sector.

The Photonics Cluster (previously Midlands Photonics Cluster), based at Aston Science Park near Birmingham, was created to offer a focal point for photonics companies and academic institutions within the Midlands. Its success and growth led to the need for a national organization much sooner than was originally envisaged.

Glenn Barrowman, Midlands Photonics Cluster Manager, said: "There is a total commitment to the continued expansion of the Photonics Cluster, which will see the inclusion of the remaining English laser manufacturers, distributors and relevant academic institutions."

"The further integration of the cluster into defense, automotive, aerospace and healthcare sectors is a priority for the newly amalgamated Photonics Cluster, as well as the development of overseas networks for our membership."

Mike Elliot, UKLEO Council Member and Managing Director of Elliot Scientific, advised that, "Both organizations shared the aspiration to bring real commercial value to its members so a merger was the logical conclusion to the talks undertaken between the UKLEO Council and Glenn Barrowman of Midlands Photonics Cluster."

Stuart Webb, ICT Cluster Manager for Advantage West Midlands, the Regional Development Agency for West Midlands, expressed his support to the merger. "The expansion of the cluster strengthens the hub of core activities that continue to be delivered within the region. This in turn is likely to boost the competitiveness of West Midlands companies by exposing them to an increased number of more diverse business opportunities."

The merger has already brought fifty nationally recognized companies such as Coherent (UK) Ltd, Elliot Scientific, Fuji Film Electronic Publishing, Lambda Photometrics Ltd., TRW Conekt and Davin Group together.

For more details, visit www.midlandsphotonicscluster.org .

Laser Focus World

Sponsored Recommendations

Melles Griot® XPLAN™ CCG Lens Series

March 19, 2024
IDEX Health & Science sets a new standard with our Melles Griot® XPLAN™ CCG Lens Series fluorescence microscope imaging systems. Access superior-quality optics with off-the-shelf...

Spatial Biology

March 19, 2024
Spatial Biology refers to the field that integrates spatial information into biological research, allowing for the study of biological systems in their native spatial context....

Custom-Engineered Optical Solutions for Your Application

March 19, 2024
We combine advanced optical design and manufacturing technology, with decades of experience in critical applications, to take you from first designs to ongoing marketplace success...

Semrock Optical Filters Resources

March 19, 2024
Looking for more information about Semrock optical filters? Explore sets by fluorophore, download the 2023 Semrock catalog and more.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!