A Staffordshire-based company which received business support from Keele University has recently visited Westminster to discuss an innovative new product, following an invitation from a Minister.

Rotarad, located in Cresswell, Stoke-on-Trent, has created a revolutionary conversion kit that enables domestic radiators to ‘drop forward from the wall’ quickly and safely, providing full and easy access for deep cleaning and decorating.

The product recently came to the attention of Derek Thomas MP, member of the All-Party Parliament Group for Healthy Homes and Buildings, who invited Rotarad to Westminster to discuss their ideas.

Rotarad’s Managing Director Malcolm Keeling, and Business Development Manager Caroline Carr, were joined on their visit by a Keele Research, Development and Innovation Associate, Luke Bellamy.  As part of the University’s Research and Innovation Support Programme (KRISP)*, Luke worked with Rotarad to compile an evidence-based research case to underpin the development of future products.  Both Luke and Rotarad were supported during the process by a project team consisting of academic and professional advisory staff from Keele University.

Speaking about the visit, Malcolm Keeling said: “Meeting the Minister was a fantastic opportunity to discuss housing air quality and the research links found between ill health and dust associated with radiator use.  He seemed very interested in how our product can make a difference and how Keele University supported us in its development.”

Jayne Eagles, Innovation Advisor at Keele University, added: “It is great that local companies such as Rotarad are benefiting from the support available from Keele University and its highly-skilled students.  In this instance, not only has Luke gained invaluable workplace experience and helped to shape the future of an exciting local SME, his input into the project has the potential to influence policy on a national scale.”

Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent businesses can benefit from a range of specialist support and funding, more details of which are available through Keele University’s Business Gateway - 01782 733001 / business.gateway@keele.ac.uk.

*The Keele Research and Innovation Support Programme is receiving up to £1.5m of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Department for Communities and Local Government (and in London the intermediate body Greater London Authority) is the Managing Authority for European Regional Development Fund.