Blu Wireless Welcomes Two New Equity Investors

UK-based 5G millimeter wave system developer Blu Wireless Technology has recently secured investments from two new equity partners. Maven Capital Partners, representing the South West Investment Fund, and Swedish group Ependion, through its Westermo business, have both acquired undisclosed equity stakes in Blu Wireless, headquartered in Bristol.

Blu Wireless has been making significant strides with its 57 to 71GHz gigabit wireless systems, which are currently being implemented on the Caltrain in California's Silicon Valley and on South Western Railway in the UK. Maven Capital, acting as the fund manager for the British Business Bank's South West Investment Fund, has the capacity to invest up to £5 million in equity in local businesses, and the negotiations for this deal have been ongoing for over six months.

"Blu Wireless has developed a highly defensible and scalable mmWave solution that could substantially enhance connectivity on high-speed rail transportation. This new investment will support the company in further commercializing its cutting-edge technology, potentially leading to the creation of new high-quality engineering roles in the Bristol area," stated Alexander Sleigh, Maven Investment Director.

Alan Jones, CEO of Blu Wireless, expressed his enthusiasm about the investment, highlighting the positive impact it will have on the business and the region. The undisclosed funding will enable Blu Wireless to expand its global deployments and advance the commercialization of mmWave technology within the rail sector, setting the stage for the introduction of the 'gigabit train' concept both in the UK and internationally.

Recently, Blu Wireless entered into a strategic partnership with Westermo, the industrial networking division of Swedish conglomerate Ependion. This collaboration involves Westermo acquiring a minority stake in Blu Wireless, which grants them a seat on the board. Jenny Sjödahl, President and CEO at Ependion, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, stating, "We see great potential for mmWave technology in the rail sector, and this partnership with Blu Wireless will enhance our capabilities in train-to-ground communication."

Blu Wireless CEO Alan Jones also expressed his optimism about the collaboration with Westermo, highlighting the opportunities it presents for expanding their market presence and advancing the commercialization of mmWave wireless technology. This partnership marks a significant milestone in Blu Wireless's growth trajectory and underscores their commitment to innovation in the rail sector.