UK-based advanced materials supplier Goodfellow, backed by Battery Ventures, has acquired Potomac Photonics, a US microfabrication specialist, marking its first foray into American manufacturing. The deal strengthens Goodfellow’s foothold in the fast-growing medical device and microfluidics sectors, which underpin innovations like cell therapies and cancer diagnostics.
From Materials Supplier to End-to-End Partner
CEO Simon Kenney highlighted the strategic fit: “Potomac adds micron-scale machining expertise and a US production base, complementing our role as a materials innovator.” Goodfellow, which supplied materials for breakthroughs like Lawrence Livermore’s fusion project, can now support clients from R&D to mass production with expanded post-processing capabilities.
Potomac’s Precision Meets Global Reach
Potomac, based in Baltimore, specializes in laser micromachining of polymers, metals, and ceramics for miniature components. President Mike Adelstein noted the synergy: “Goodfellow’s global network will accelerate our market access.” The acquisition also establishes Potomac as Goodfellow’s US operational hub, enhancing regional sales efforts.
Driving Growth with New Brand Identity
The deal follows Goodfellow’s recent rebranding, symbolized by a logo reflecting materials at nano, micro, and macro scales. CFO Andrew Watson emphasized the US as a “vital growth market,” with Potomac’s capabilities dovetailing with Goodfellow’s high-performance alloys, ceramics, and composites.
A Blueprint for Materials Innovation
By integrating Potomac’s prototype-to-production scaling, Goodfellow aims to capture more of the $50B+ advanced materials market. The acquisition underscores how traditional suppliers are evolving into end-to-end solution providers for high-tech industries.
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