Battery firm reveals location of UK base

A US battery specialist company has announced it will open its UK and European base in North Staffordshire.

Contour Energy Systems, which specialises in producing rechargeable and non-rechargeable battery systems for a number of sectors from medicine to the military, will establish its base at the Keele University Science and Business Park.

Formed in 2007, the California-based company already boasts a number of high-profile clients such as NASA, but is looking to expand into the European markets.

Since its formation, scientists at Contour Energy Systems have developed more than 60 battery systems which can be used in defibrillators, bone growth simulators and military radios.

The move to the UK will help the company exploit the £1 billion global market in non-rechargeable batteries, as well as the rechargeable market, which is set to double from its current worth of £6.7 billion by 2013.

Simon Lee-Overy, managing director of the company, who will lead the distribution hub in Keele, said: “For us Keele is a great location and everyone at the business park has been very helpful. Keele matched what we were looking for – it is central for travelling to both London and the north and it’s close to a number of airports.”

Rosi Monkman, Business Support Manager at Keele University Science and Business Park, added: “We are delighted to welcome Contour Energy Systems.

“It is clear that our central location in the UK is a key factor in attracting high-calibre, international companies looking for a base from which to enter the UK and European markets.”

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