A company based near Bristol which has supplied weather sensors to airports, stadiums and offshore platforms for more than 25 years has been bought by an international measurement technology innovator.

Biral, whose sensors measure everything from precipitation to visibility to lightning detection, has joined German organization Senseca in a move it described as expanding its capabilities and reach across the walk.

The Portishead-based company said the takeover marked a new chapter in its quarter-century history, although for now it will continue to operate under its own brand.

As part of the transition, Biral’s managing director, Paul Smith, will retire. The company says that under his leadership, it has become a trusted partner for customers in critical sectors such as aviation, renewable energy and transportation infrastructure.

His commitment to innovation and excellence has been instrumental in the growth and success of Biral, the statement added.

Biral’s chief financial officer, Ben Lockwood, will become its new chief executive, bringing a wealth of financial and operational experience to the role.

Biral said Senseca shares its focus on high-precision measurement technologies and is strongly aligned with its core mission of providing accurate and reliable data in critical sectors.

Senseca’s deep expertise in industrial and environmental sensor technology, as well as its commitment to sustainability and innovation, also make it “a perfect partner” to support Biral’s growth and expansion.

Senseca employs around 300 highly skilled people at its state-of-the-art manufacturing sites in Germany and Italy.

Its measurement technology products are used in sectors ranging from renewable energy and agriculture to water management, healthcare and pharmaceuticals. They are also used in factories and smart cities.

Christian Unterberger, CEO of Senseca, said: “Biral’s excellent reputation for visibility and current weather sensors, as well as its storm detection capabilities, will enhance Senseca’s global footprint in the renewable energy and will significantly strengthen its environmental monitoring portfolio.

Paul Smith said it had been an honor to lead Biral over the past few years.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished and how we have become a company known for precision and reliability,” he added.

“I am confident that under Senseca’s leadership, Biral will continue to thrive and innovate in ways that benefit both our customers and the industry as a whole.”

Ben Lockwood said joining Senseca provided the company with a unique opportunity to leverage its global expertise and resources to further strengthen Biral’s offering.

“I look forward to continuing our legacy of innovation and delivering even more value to our customers,” he added.

Biral shareholders were advised by KPMG’s Bristol-based corporate finance team, led by John Levis and Dan Bagnall, with Dominic Davis and Tom Curnow of Bristol-based law firm Burges Salmon providing advice. legal expertise. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.