WJ Group, the UK’s leading road marking and highway safety company, has announced the strategic acquisition of Sunstone IP Systems Ltd, a company renowned for its solar-powered surveillance and communications technology. This acquisition aims to bolster WJ Group’s technological capabilities in decarbonising operations while providing advanced, clean power solutions across various industries, including highways, security, rail, construction, oil and gas, and defence.
With the rebranding of Sunstone IP Systems to WJ Sunstone, the company aims to expand its portfolio of innovative products. Among its offerings is the Solar CCTV System (SICS), a cutting-edge solution that facilitates surveillance and data transmission in off-grid locations. This acquisition significantly enhances WJ Group’s existing Intelligent Traffic Solutions (ITS) division, allowing for the provision of comprehensive, energy-efficient security and monitoring systems tailored to multiple sectors.
The expanded product range under WJ Sunstone will include several advanced solutions, such as the Autonomous Remote Communications System (ARC), Solar and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) power stations, and the IO System, a rapidly deployable communications hub designed for reliable and cost-effective site security. These products are in response to the growing demand for sustainable, clean energy alternatives to conventional power sources, reinforcing WJ Group’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.
Wayne Johnston, CEO and founder of WJ Group, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “Acquiring Sunstone Systems marks a significant milestone in our mission to create safe, sustainable journeys for everyone. WJ Sunstone will enhance our Intelligent Traffic Solutions offering, allowing us to address a broader range of challenges across highways and beyond. The innovation and collaboration Sunstone brings to surveillance and communication technologies aligns perfectly with our values of safety, delivery, innovation, and community. We are delighted to welcome the Sunstone team into the WJ family.”
The integration of Sunstone’s technologies into the UK highway network has already begun, with developments in solar-powered generators and CCTV systems that have gained recognition as market leaders in performance and reliability. The combined capabilities of WJ Group and WJ Sunstone will be supported by WJ Group’s dedicated Control Centre in Stoke-on-Trent, which will ensure rapid deployment and robust support for clients throughout the country.
Paul Schelhaas, a representative from WJ Sunstone, highlighted the benefits of the merger: “Joining forces with WJ gives us unparalleled reach and capacity. With WJ’s national infrastructure, extensive resources, and trained operatives across the UK, we are in a stronger position to deliver our clean power platforms for highways, security, and many other sectors. We’re excited to leverage these capabilities to enhance our services to clients and meet the growing demand for sustainable off-grid solutions.”
This acquisition marks a significant step for WJ Group as it seeks to innovate and expand its offerings in the clean power sector, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the industry while contributing to a more sustainable future.