A firm based near Bristol that has supplied weather sensors to airports, stadiums and offshore platforms for more than 25 years has been acquired by an international innovator in measurement technology.
Biral, whose sensors measure everything from precipitation to visibility as well as detecting lightning, has become part of the German-owned Senseca organisation in a move it described as expanding its capabilities and market reach.
The Portishead-based firm said the takeover marked a new chapter in its quarter of a century plus history, although for the time being it will continue to operate under its own brand.
As part of the transition, Biral managing director Paul Smith will retire, with the firm saying under his leadership, it had became a trusted partner for clients in critical sectors such as aviation, renewable energy and transport infrastructure.
His commitment to innovation and excellence had been instrumental in Biral’s growth and success, it added.
Biral finance director Ben Lockwood will become its new managing director, bringing a wealth of financial and operational experience to the role.
Biral said Senseca shared its focus on high-precision measurement technologies and strongly aligned with its core mission of delivering accurate and reliable data across critical sectors.
Senseca’s deep expertise in industrial and environmental sensor technology alongside its commitment to sustainability and innovation also made it “a perfect match” to support Biral’s growth and expansion. 
Senseca employs around 300 highly skilled staff across its state-of-the-art manufacturing sites in Germany and Italy.
Its measurement technology products are used by sectors ranging from renewable energy and agriculture to water management, healthcare and pharma. They are also used in smart factories and cities.
Senseca CEO Christian Unterberger said: “Biral’s excellent reputation in visibility and present weather sensors, as well as its thunderstorm detection capabilities, will enhance Senseca’s global footprint in the renewable energy sector and significantly strengthen its environmental monitoring portfolio.”
Paul Smith said it had been an honour to lead Biral over the past years.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and how we’ve grown into a company recognised for our precision and reliability,” he added.
“I am confident that under Senseca’s management, Biral will continue to flourish and innovate in ways that benefit both our clients and the wider industry.”
Ben Lockwood said joining Senseca offered the firm a unique opportunity to leverage its global expertise and resources to strengthen Biral’s offering further.
“I look forward to continuing our legacy of innovation and delivering even greater value to our customers,” he added.
Biral’s shareholders of were advised by KPMG’s Bristol-based corporate finance team, led by John Levis and Dan Bagnall, with Dominic Davis and Tom Curnow from Bristol-headquartered law firm Burges Salmon supplying legal expertise. Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.
