Touch reaches out to America

TOUCH Bionics, the developer of the world’s first commercially-available bionic hand, has acquired an American firm as it continues attempts to expand globally.

The Livingston-based company has acquired Livingskin, which makes the prosthetic skin used for the bionic hand.

The move will give Touch a presence in the United States of America, where 180 patients have already been fitted with its i-LIMB product.

Stuart Mead, chief executive at Touch, said: “This acquisition is hugely significant for Touch Bionics as we are acquiring further technical and competitive advantage in the prosthetics market. It’s a perfect match.”

Tom Passero, president of Livingskin, said: “As part of Touch Bionics, our future is both secure and exciting.”