In 2019, Phil Surtees and John Marsden started Origin Tech. The company creates and builds the most advanced technology and engineering solutions for the water sector, which helps utilities fix water leaks quickly.
The company’s AI- and satellite-powered leak detection platform, Origin Orbit®, helps water companies find leaks within 30 meters. Its Origin No Dig® technology fixes leaks without having to dig or find the exact spot of the leak. This saves time and money, lowers carbon emissions, and is the least amount of trouble for customers and roads.
BGF’s money will help the company grow and go global by speeding up the process of making new products. This is because more and more people want smart, long-lasting water systems.
John Marsden, Director and founder of Origin Tech, said: “In 2019, we set out on a mission to become water industry innovators by blending technology and engineering to drive down water loss and protect the environment.
“In a short space of time, we have turned that vision into a reality, saving over three billion litres of water and repairing more than 10,000 leaks. Earlier this year, we began to roll out our offering internationally, seeing potential and success in overseas markets. However, in order to fully capitalise on this potential, we needed an investment partner with the appetite and ambition to back a high-growth business like ours, as well as a flexible investment model that will allow us to realise our far-reaching goals. BGF fits the bill in every respect, and we’re delighted to be partnering with them.”
Earlier this year, BGF announced a £3 billion commitment to support high-potential companies across the UK over the next five years. £400 million of the £3 billion has been earmarked for businesses in Yorkshire and the North East. This builds on £711 million already invested in the regions since 2011. With a presence in Newcastle, BGF plays a vital role in addressing regional investment gaps.
John Healey, Investor at BGF, commented: “Since its commerciallaunch three years ago, Origin has scaled rapidly, quickly establishing itself as a key innovator for the UK water market.
“With John, Phil and the team delivering an exciting growth plan being scaled from the North East, Origin has all the hallmarks of becoming a real industry disruptor, pushing boundaries – both domestically and overseas – through its innovative satellite-enabled leak detection technology and trenchless leakage repair. Origin is on an impressive growth trajectory, with high aspirations for the future, and we’re delighted to be partnering with them on the next phase of their scale-up journey.”
