Vangest expands medical molding reach with acquisition of UK firms

UK – Portugal-based Vangest has acquired Micro Systems Ltd and Optimold Limited, two UK specialists in precision molding for medical applications. 

The deal adds production sites in the United Kingdom and Singapore to Vangest’s operations, following its purchase of Spanish firm Tecnomatrix last year. 

Financial terms remain undisclosed, but a company statement to news agency Lusa indicated the transaction used internal funds without borrowing, drawing on Vangest’s strong balance sheet in the sector.

The acquisitions integrate Micro Systems’ expertise in high-precision molds for diagnostic devices and Optimold’s capabilities in injection molding for drug delivery systems. 

Vangest now operates facilities across Portugal, Spain, the UK, and Singapore, enabling it to serve clients in ophthalmology, medication administration, and other medical technologies.

According to a press release, the group can now handle end-to-end solutions from product development to final assembly.

Kees Verhaar, chairman of Vangest’s board, described the move as a key step forward. “We have taken another important step as a global player in molds and injection molding for the medical industry,” he said. 

The statement added that these additions allow Vangest to meet rising demand for reliable components in healthcare, where accuracy is essential.

In related developments, Vangest leads a consortium receiving US$113 million) from Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan. 

The funding supports projects in advanced manufacturing, with all deadlines met so far, as confirmed in updates to Lusa. 

This initiative focuses on sustainable practices in plastics processing, including reduced energy use in molding operations.

The medical molding sector continues to grow amid global health needs. Recent data from industry analysts show a 7% annual increase in demand for precision components, driven by aging populations and new therapies. 

Vangest’s expansion comes at a time when European firms seek to localize supply chains, cutting reliance on distant suppliers. 

Micro Systems, founded in 1990, employs around 50 people and specializes in tools for minimally invasive devices. Optimold, established in 2005, focuses on cleanroom molding for sterile packaging elements.

Company officials noted that the integration will proceed smoothly, with shared technology platforms aiding efficiency. 

One executive mentioned indirectly that staff from the acquired firms would contribute to ongoing R&D in biocompatible materials. 

Vangest, which started in 1986, reported revenues exceeding US$50 million last year, with medical products forming 60% of its business.

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