Member Article

American firm invests in 114 year old Newcastle medical business

Medical services supplier Peacocks Medical Group has secured ‘significant’ American investment to further develop its innovations in the industry.

Established in 1903, the family-run business has been supplying medical services and equipment in the UK from its base in Newcastle upon Tyne since 1903.

Now backed by a large American technology provider, the company plans to take its Podfo 3D printed insoles to the rest of the world.

Peacocks has announced a substantial American investment in their revolutionary custom 3D printed foot insoles business, Podfo Ltd, from a division of Stratasys, one of the world’s principal 3D Printing companies headquartered in Minneapolis.

Chris Peacock, (pictured) the owner of Peacocks Medical Group, revealed: “We’ve been at the forefront of the development, innovation and manufacture of foot orthotics for over a century. Our innovation team based at Benfield Business Park was specifically tasked to create a truly dynamic 3D-printed insole and the result is PODFO.

“I’m so proud that their pioneering work has been recognised by Stratasys the world-leading 3D printing company and we are really excited about the global opportunities this partnership will create.”

Scott Rader, (pictured) GM Medical Solutions at Stratasys, visited from America to consolidate the partnership,

He added: “Customisation is key within the world of medical devices, and our work with Podfo perfectly exemplifies how 3D printing produces the highest level of personalisation achievable, immeasurably improving a patient’s quality of life.

“Together, Podfoand Stratasys will be delivering medical solutions that significantly improve clinical outcomes for even the most complex foot ailments.”

Andrew Hodgson, (pictured) Chair of the North East LEP said: “In the North East’s Strategic Economic Plan, key growth areas relate to digital technology and healthcare innovation.

“Peacocks have embedded these within the business and their strong growth trajectory is testament to this and deserves to be celebrated. We hope this success will encourage other regional companies to follow suit.”