Royal seal of approval for marine technology innovators

Sonihull, based in Coventry, was recognised in the International Trade category for its innovative technology which emits ultrasonic soundwaves to safely prevent marine algae, weeds and molluscs from colonising boats and marine structures.

“As well as reducing maintenance costs by up to 90%, Sonihull is helping to clean up the ocean by removing the need for traditional toxic biofouling methods such as biocide and copper,” said Darren Rowlands, Sonihull CEO.

“We we are incredibly proud to be leading the way in transforming how marine applications are approaching antifouling.”

Terrific growth

Antifouling is an industry that is worth about US$100 billion annually in the commercial shipping sector alone and Sonihull is making significant waves in the market, with its technology now found on vessels in more than 70 countries and territories.

Its success has seen its turnover grow 40% year-on-year, leading to an overseas expansion with new Abu Dhabi offices and laboratory in 2020, a USA office in Boston in 2022 and a Vancouver and EU base opening in 2023.

In addition to Sonihull, Swansea based Lumishore has also been awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade, recognising its sustained commercial growth in marine LED lighting systems.

And Spinlock has received the prestigious King’s Award for Innovation in recognition of its ALTO waist-worn lifesaving device, primarily targeted at those in the fishing and watersports sectors.

The ALTO replaces a bulkier, body-worn buoyancy aid. The waist-worn compact product benefits from a smaller-packed volume and becomes buoyant when inflated.