Healthcare business invests in digital innovation and 3D printing thanks to Council support

A long-established Liverpool healthcare supplier is investing in digital transformation and advanced manufacturing, creating new jobs and strengthening its offer to the NHS and private healthcare markets.

Liverpool-based healthcare manufacturer and distributor Algeos specialises in podiatry, physiotherapy and prosthetics. Employing 72 people and with a strong track record of supplying the NHS, the business is primed to look ahead and plan for long-term, sustainable growth in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

When Max Sheridan became Managing Director, he and the newly formed leadership team wanted to take a fresh look at the business. “With a new leadership team in place, it felt like the right time to step back, question how we do things and think about where we want to be in five years’ time.”

To support an internal strategy process, Algeos accessed support through Liverpool City Council’s Business Support Service, funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. This gave the team the space and external expertise to review their strategy, priorities and future direction.

Working with consultant Mark Butchard, Algeos took part in a series of structured strategy sessions, helping the business clarify its focus at a time when the NHS, suppliers and customers are all under increasing pressure.

“Mark came in and looked at all of our capabilities and what we do; our assets; prioritising strategic objectives,” Max explains. “We came away with an action plan to focus on the customer experience, automation and digital transformation.”

As a result, Algeos has made significant investments in systems, processes and customer experience. The business has automated large parts of its digital estate, integrating its website with back-office systems to reduce manual work and free up staff time.

“Mark talked a lot about adding value to the customer,” Max adds. “Our team is still the same number of people, but we utilise them in terms of account management and business development now, instead.” Algeos has also invested in new procurement, forecasting and stock management systems to ensure customers receive the right products at the right time, alongside a new CRM system to support better decision-making and customer segmentation.

Perhaps most visibly, innovation has taken a major step forward with the launch of Algeos’ first custom-manufactured medical devices using 3D printing – produced in Liverpool.

The move into advanced manufacturing is already creating jobs locally and opening up new routes into the business. This year, Algeos launched its first custom-manufactured products using 3D printing, produced in Liverpool. That innovation is creating jobs in the city region, bringing in apprentices through partnerships including the King’s Trust, and helping the business attract fresh talent to complement an experienced workforce.

Alongside continued work with the NHS, Algeos is also expanding its presence in private practice and private hospital markets, supported by a clearer value proposition and improved digital capability.

Later in 2024, the business built on this work by developing its own five-year “Go North” strategic roadmap to 2030, covering customers, markets, research and development, social value and future investment.

The impact is already visible. Algeos has expanded into additional premises, is operating more efficiently, and continues to invest in innovation and people. For Max, the strategic support has helped the business move beyond short-term pressures and focus on building for the future.

“We’re proud to be growing and innovating here in Liverpool, and to continue contributing to the city’s healthcare manufacturing sector.”

Liverpool City Council’s Business Support Service has received £451,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority as the lead authority.

The service offers free, tailored advice for small and growing businesses, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. If your business is looking for support, visit liverpool.gov.uk/businesssupportservice.

Cllr Nick Small, Member for Growth and Economy, said: “Algeos is a great example of how long‑established Liverpool businesses are embracing innovation to grow sustainably, create jobs and strengthen the city’s economy.

“By investing in digital transformation and advanced manufacturing, the company is not only future‑proofing its own operations but also supporting the NHS and healthcare sector more widely.

“We’re proud to support businesses like Algeos through our Business Support Service and to see that investment delivering real impact here in Liverpool.”