Collagen Solutions plc (LON:COS) Chief Executive Officer Stewart White caught up with DirectorsTalk for an exclusive interview to discuss the granting of a new patent in the US to Southern Lights Biomaterials
Q1: Last week we saw the announcement of new patent being granted in the States to Southern Lights Biomaterials for the processing of a new bio-material. Can you tell us what this means for the company?
A1: I think that it means is the realisation of the value that we’ve seen at Southern Lights and a tremendous validation of the capabilities and the investment that the company before acquisition had made. The granting of the patent itself obviously secures the know-how around the processing of the material which has also added to the value in my view to the ability to source that material specifically from New Zealand for the benefit of heart valve replacement companies.
Q2: Is there anything like this on the market already, the process that’s involved?
A2: We don’t believe so. I think it’s been excellent that they have recognised the novelty here in progressing the patent. We believe it’ll add significant value, not only in terms of the use of less invasive surgical procedures but be in more of a stronger and flexible bio-material in the heart valve application sector.
Q3: In terms of timescales, how soon before you can explore licensing with companies?
A3: Southern Lights have been active in the pericardium supply business for quite a few years and very successful in my view. I think founded on that historic basis of success and reputation and indeed customer base, I think this new offering will receive significant interest, it really talks to the value of Collagen Solutions can provide over a range of medical device applications using bio-material.
Q4: So you’d be looking to explore further afield?
A4: Absolutely. I think it’s an excellent technology that we’ve got the benefit of protecting within the group and it allows us to do that.
Q5: With regards to the actual processing of the new material, how long does that take?
A5: It doesn’t take too long. It doesn’t take months and months, it’s more days and days so we have the capability, the capacity and the access to materials so that supply can be provided to a wide range of customers from New Zealand.
Q6: Finally, what should investors be looking for in terms of news flow over the next few months to the end of the year?
A6: I think we do have a lot going on. The period during, since and following acquisition has been very busy. We’re seeing significant interest from the customer base across the markets and this is a very exciting time for the company. We believe we’ve got a great team of people, great access to market in New Zealand, the UK and the US. So it’s an exciting time and I would expect that to be reflected in the news flow moving forward.
