Peterlee-based biomedical manufacturer invests in Singapore facility

Biomedical test equipment manufacturer Rigel Medical is taking steps to expand its global reach.

The Peterlee-based company, part of the Seaward Group, has invested in a facility in Singapore under a plan to reach new markets in Asia.

Rigel’s new service centre, its first calibration facility providing biomedical test equipment repair services in the area, will target sales growth in the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region.

The venture marks another step forward in Rigel’s partnership with regional distributor Leedon Technology, which will run the facility.

Seaward Group MD Andrew Upton commented: “Rigel has exciting plans to reach more customers across the world, and our new service centre is just the latest step in our expansion.

“We’re committed to expanding our global reach and providing more and better services to our international customers, and our partnerships with companies like Leedon are an instrumental part of this growth.”

Before now, Rigel’s customers have had to send their devices to the firm’s County Durham base for repairs, incurring hefty shipping costs and long periods of downtime.

Speaking further, Andrew said: “As the only facility in the region with the ability to deliver the quality of work we demand from our service partners, the new centre will allow our distributors to provide a better and faster service to their customers, helping them reduce downtime and save money.”

Leedon Technology MD Lin Yuen Thong said: “We have worked closely alongside Rigel to fit-out the facility and train our staff to get the centre up and running.

“Rigel products are becoming incredibly popular in our region, so I am very proud to be offering this new service to both our local and regional partners.”

Rigel has bases in the North East and Tampa, Florida. Founded in the 1970s, the company now employs 160 staff worldwide.