The Charles Russell Technology team advised Halma (the leading FTSE 250 safety, health and environmental technology group) on its acquisition of Talentum.   Talentum is a technology bolt-on for Halma's Infrastructure Safety business, Fire Fighting Enterprises ('FFE'). As a result of the transaction the respected Talentum brand of optical flame detectors joins FFE's established product offering of Fireray infrared beam smoke detectors.

Optical flame detectors are often used in sensitive or dangerous environments to detect fires even before there is any smoke produced, or where smokeless fires may occur. Infrared beam smoke detectors are designed to protect large indoor spaces, with each detector able to detect smoke over huge areas compared to other methods. Both detection methods share many common applications, particularly suiting the protection of environments handling flammable materials, alcohol, chemicals or fuel – such as warehouses, distilleries and aircraft hangars.

Ian Steel, Managing Director of FFE, said: “I’m delighted with this development, and really see this as an investment in an excellent technology and business. We are really looking forward to bringing the best out of both companies – many customers will be buying from both of us already, and we hope to use our global sales channels to bring these excellent products to wider markets.”

The transaction involved members of Charles Russell's corporate, tax, employment and real estate teams. Corporate partner Will Axtell led the team with key support from associate Tom Smitham.