KeTech demonstrates transformative real-time information technology to Maya Ellis MP

KeTech, a technology and engineering company dedicated to improving the rail passenger experience, showcased its technology to local MP Maya Ellis when she visited their main headquarters late last week.

Headquartered in Preston, KeTech connects data used by trains, stations, and operators so passengers receive clear, accurate, live information throughout their journeys from start to finish. KeTech supports passenger safety by providing operators with systems that ensure trains depart safely and everyone on board or on the platform is protected and through its systems enhances 1.3 billion passenger journeys every year.

The visit was organised by the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA), providing the MP with the opportunity to meet with KeTech Chief Executive Officer Denise Lawrenson, and showcase the key role private capital investment has played in KeTech’s growth journey, particularly accelerating the development of KeTech Systems’ product portfolio and expanding into new markets.

KeTech is backed by YFM Equity Partners (YFM). YFM initially invested in KeTech in 2015 due to its strong position as an innovator in the transportation and defence technology sectors. Since then, it has played a key role in supporting KeTech’s growth potential through technological development, global expansion and sustainability innovation.

Following the BVCA’s Invest North West Forum in Manchester last week, which brought together a wide variety of stakeholders from across industry and academia, the BVCA published a new report on the impact of private capital in the North West. The report showed that as of 2024, private capital-backed businesses in the North West support 247,000 jobs and generate £15.7bn of GDP for the North West economy.
 

Commenting on the visit, Maya Ellis, MP for Ribble Valley said: 

“It was fantastic to visit KeTech in Preston and see first-hand the cutting-edge technology that is transforming the rail passenger experience across the UK. By connecting information from trains, stations, and operators, KeTech ensures safer journeys and provides millions of passengers with clear, real-time updates every year.

 “YFM Equity Partners’ investment has enabled KeTech to accelerate product development, expand into new markets, and strengthen its position as a leader in transport technology. Across the North West, private capital-backed businesses are making a huge impact—supporting 247,000 jobs and contributing £15.7 billion to the regional economy. This investment is helping businesses like KeTech thrive, creating high-quality jobs and delivering world-class solutions that benefit passengers and communities nationwide and I look forward to their further investment in the North West and especially in Lancashire, where gems such as Ketech clearly thrive.”

Commenting, Denise Lawrenson, Chief Executive at KeTech said:

“It was a pleasure to host Maya Ellis MP at our headquarters and get the chance to demonstrate our technology that is transforming the railway industry, driving increased connectedness and improved customer experience.

“YFM has been instrumental in the success story of KeTech since their investment in 2015. We look forward to continuing to work together as we continue the development of our systems and drive expansion both here in the U.K. and overseas.”

Commenting, BVCA Chief Executive Michael Moore said:

“KeTech is a great example of a business that has harnessed the support of private capital to achieve financial success, deliver innovation and support the local economy.

“Private capital is a partner for economic growth, supporting thousands of jobs in the North West and across the UK. Our industry backs the most innovative businesses supporting local economies in every nation and region.” 

Notes to Editors:  

For further information, please contact:  

BVCA Press Office 
Email: [email protected]
 

Background

About the British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association  

The British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA) is the industry body and public policy advocate for the private equity (PE) and venture capital (VC) (private capital) industry in the UK. With a membership of over 600 firms, we represent the vast majority of all UK-based private capital firms, as well as their professional advisers and a large base of UK and global investors. The private equity and venture capital industry has a vital role to play in driving national and regional growth. Currently over 13,000 companies, employing more than 2.5 million people, are backed by private equity and venture capital investment in the UK. 

About KeTech:

KeTech is a UK-based technology solutions provider in Rail specialising in real-time information systems and mission-critical technologies. Headquartered in Preston, KeTech delivers innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and operational performance across the rail industry.

About YFM Equity Partners:

YFM Equity Partners is an independent, privately owned private equity investor that has been backing UK businesses for over 40 years, since 1982. It provides funding, expertise, and strategic support to ambitious management teams in established businesses looking to scale up. YFM's investments typically range from £3m to £15m and are used for growth capital, management buyouts, and other strategic initiatives like acquisitions and new technology.