EDGE Hill University computer science experts have been awarded £170,000 of Government funding to help a Lancashire company harness the power of AI to grow their business.

J. Wareing & Son designs and builds steel-framed structures for agricultural and commercial sectors and has been trading for 105 years.

The Preston-based company has partnered with the University to develop a cloud-based quoting system that will use bespoke AI technology to boost business.

This cutting-edge system will improve the company's productivity and expand its market share both regionally and nationally.

The 2½ year venture is being supported by £170,000 from Innovate UK’s Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) programme.

Professor Marcello Trovati, a leading expert in computer science at Edge Hill University, will spearhead the innovative project and is highly experienced in delivering AI-based KTPs. He said:- "We are delighted to expand Edge Hill’s AI-driven KTP portfolio with this exciting new partnership. This complex and forward-thinking project is set to revolutionise J. Wareing's operations by enhancing their capacity, efficiency and accuracy through an intelligent cloud based quoting system. The outcomes will not only solidify J. Wareing’s competitive edge in the construction market but also create significant opportunities for advancing our research and fostering knowledge exchange.”

J. Wareing 1st collaborated with the University in 2021 through the SME Productivity & Innovation Centre’s Innovation Sprint Programme. The new partnership will also see the employment of a Computer Science Masters level associate who will play a key role in developing the AI solution.

Construction Director, Chris Wareing said:- “The KTP project will be transformative for our business. Bringing AI solutions and capabilities in-house will not only strengthen our competitive advantage in the market, but also equip us to tackle challenges beyond the KTP, ensuring the business remains agile and future-ready for generations to come.”

This is the 6th AI-focused KTP project delivered by the University in the last eight years, reinforcing Edge Hill’s position as a leading provider of KTP projects in the region.

For more information on the growth support offered by Edge Hill’s SME Productivity & Innovation Centre, visit the Edge Hill University SMECentre's website.