Prudhoe company behind glow-in-the-dark concrete to create 30 jobs

A business based in Prudhoe has secured a patent for glow-in-the-dark concrete and revealed plans to create dozens of jobs.

Bespoke Concrete Products took to the Great Exhibition of the North to showcase Nitecrete, which stores power through the day and emits a glow at night.

By using non-toxic, non-radioactive chemical materials, Nitecrete serves as an environmentally friendly and renewable light source that gives off no carbon emissions and requires no electrical connections or batteries.

Early applications for the material include Newcastle’s Science Central scheme, the dark skies environment in Kielder Forest and the Whitley Bay seafront.

Most recently, Nitecrete was incorporated into an art installation on the banks of the Tyne as part of the Great Exhibition.

Bespoke Concrete Products developed the glowing concrete in a five-year research and development programme backed by Newcastle-based advisory firm Ryecroft Glenton, which helped the company secure R&D tax relief and provided accounting support.

With the patent in place, Bespoke Concrete Products plans to add a further 30 heads to its 44-strong workforce over the next 18 months, as it develops the market for Nitecrete in the UK and overseas.

Martin Kay, managing director of Bespoke Concrete Products, commented: “We are very proud to secure the patent for Nitecrete, which protects the hard work of our highly-skilled craftspeople and technicians who have developed the product.

“This will enable the company to establish it as a new solution for multiple sectors across the country and further afield.”

He continued: “While it is visually impressive as part of an art installation or public realm development, it offers benefits in areas such as road safety and provides an alternative signage option, particularly in locations where there is no power available.”

Ryecroft Glenton’s managing partner, Chris Robson, said: “Bespoke Concrete Products is a great example of the creative, manufacturing-based businesses that have given the North East its industrial credentials for generations and will ensure the region continues to be at the forefront of innovation for many years to come.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →