Measuring a plant’s health
Israel’s Phytech is bringing the Internet of Things to the plant world. Plantbeat’s sensors measure how healthy a plant is and what to do to improve it. Phytech is to sell its PlantBeat alert system to farmers in North and South America.
A better booster seat
Israeli entrepreneur Jon Sumroy has developed mifold, a booster seat that is 10 times smaller than the typical booster seat. It holds the seat and shoulder belts down to match the child’s height and body contours, so as to fit securely. It is easily folded up - ideal for carpools, taxi rides, and even bus rides,
Google launches Waze ride-sharing app
Google has launched a pilot carpooling service for Tel Aviv commuters. It is being offered through Israeli navigation app Waze, which Google bought in 2013 for about $1 billion, and through RideWith - a new app for passengers who are not Waze users.
Merck’s Israeli R&D center
The German giant Merck joined the growing number of multinationals with Israeli Research & Development centers by purchasing Jerusalem’s Qlight Nanotech. Qlight’s innovative nanocrystal technology is ideal for low energy LCD screens and LED lighting. Merck’s other Israeli ventures include biotech Serono which has developed Rebif (MS) and Erbitux (cancer) treatments.
Direct flights to Boston
El Al have just begun their non-stop service from Tel Aviv to Boston Logan airport, the fastest route to the USA. Last year 67,000 passengers flew from Boston to Tel Aviv via other cities. There are strong Israeli business links, with over 200 Israeli companies operating in Massachusetts.
Another $8 million for Israeli-US projects.
The Israel-U.S. Binational Industrial Research and Development (BIRD) Foundation has approved $8 million in funding for ten new projects between U.S. and Israeli companies. The projects will also access an additional $11 million of private sector funding.
Apple opens in 20 Israeli cities
Apple is opening 20 sales booths in almost all major Israeli cities. Apple’s products will be marketed by Partner employees who have been trained via the Apple “Masters” program.
Mapal Green to launch on London AIM
Israeli wastewater technology company Mapal Green Energy is seeking to raise £2-3 million by listing on London’s Alternative Index Market. Mapal’s systems significantly reduce the energy costs of sewage purification plants .
Frutarom gets even fruitier
Israeli flavors and ingredients company Frutarom has just acquired its eighth company in 12 months. It has paid $4 million for US flavors company Foote & Jenks. F&J specializes in flavors that mask the aftertaste of medicines. The purchase helps Frutarom expand its US activity.
US giant buys Israeli fire-detection company
Israel’s Spectronix, developer of sensors and fire and gas detection systems, has been bought by Emerson Electric (part of the $37.8 billion US Emerson Group) for $99 million. After the acquisition, Spectronix will continue to operate its business in Sderot.
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