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Stockport Today
By the People, for the People
Electrification Giant ABB Acquires Stockport's IPEC
The acquisition of the University of Manchester spinout expands ABB's footprint in the UK.
Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:02am
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The acquisition of IPEC by electrification giant ABB signals a strategic move to expand its specialized engineering capabilities in the UK market.Stockport TodayABB, a major global player in electrification services, has acquired IPEC Limited, a technology company spun out from the University of Manchester. IPEC, which employs over 70 people at its Stockport headquarters, was founded by Dr. Colin Smith and specializes in advanced electrical engineering solutions.
Why it matters
The acquisition of IPEC by ABB represents a significant expansion of the electrification giant's presence in the UK market, allowing it to leverage IPEC's specialized expertise and technology. It also highlights the continued growth and commercialization of university spinouts, which play an important role in translating academic research into real-world applications.
The details
IPEC was founded in 2015 as a spinout from the University of Manchester, where it was established by Dr. Colin Smith. The company has grown to employ over 70 people at its headquarters in Stockport, developing advanced electrical engineering solutions for a range of industries. ABB, a multinational corporation and leader in electrification services, has now acquired IPEC, allowing it to expand its footprint and capabilities in the UK market.
- IPEC was founded in 2015 as a spinout from the University of Manchester.
- The acquisition of IPEC by ABB was announced on April 2, 2026.
The players
ABB
A multinational corporation and leader in electrification services, automation, and robotics.
IPEC Limited
A technology company spun out from the University of Manchester, specializing in advanced electrical engineering solutions.
Dr. Colin Smith
The founder of IPEC and a former researcher at the University of Manchester.
What they’re saying
“This acquisition allows us to further strengthen our position in the UK market and leverage IPEC's specialized expertise to better serve our customers.”
— Ulrich Spiesshofer, CEO of ABB
“We are excited to join the ABB family and continue our mission of developing innovative electrical engineering solutions that drive progress.”
— Dr. Colin Smith, Founder of IPEC
What’s next
The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
The takeaway
The acquisition of IPEC by ABB demonstrates the continued growth and importance of university spinouts in driving innovation and technological progress, as well as the ongoing consolidation in the electrification services industry.
