Bristol-based green technology firm ModCell has launched an office in San Francisco, after only three years of trading in the UK.
The firm specialises in modern methods of construction – in particular the production of straw bale, pre-fabricated panels, which allow for the construction of large-scale, zero-carbon buildings.
The timber frame panels are filled with locally sourced straw or hemp and are constructed off-site in ‘Flying Factories’, often in farmer’s barns close to the build projects. The panels provide better thermal insulation than their more traditional counterparts, resulting in up to 80% reduction of heating bills.
Established by managing director Craig White, ModCell has completed projects in schools, housing and light industrial buildings. It is also currently working on feasibility projects with some of the UK’s large supermarket chains.
ModCell began working with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) South West in 2010 to break into the US market. The company signed up to the UKTI Passport to Export programme as an introduction to trading overseas. Here ModCell gained valuable insights into specifically operating in the US.
A year on and ModCell has established an office in San Francisco where the company’s Business Development Manager, Miles Ford, is developing licence agreements for the US and Canada.
In May, ModCell was announced winner of the Design category in the UKTI Business Innovation Awards in America. The company is also planning to expand across Europe and is taking part in a UKTI trade mission to Berlin later this year.
Managing director Craig White said: “We have worked with Andrew and UKTI for over a year now and their support has been instrumental in giving us the confidence to take the step in setting up international operations.
“With UKTI’s help, we now understand what it really takes to develop a business overseas. Our experience to date, coupled with further support from UKTI will unquestionably pave the way for further international development.”
UKTI’s International Trade Advisor Andrew Fraser added: “ModCell really is leading the way in modern methods of construction and the fact they have successfully established themselves in the US only three years after trading in the UK is testament to their dedication and commitment over the last 12 months. I have no doubt they will enjoy continued success in other markets.”
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