Melbourne-based Elenium Automation recently announced it has raised AU$15million in Series A funding from high profile investors, spearheaded by Acorn Capital.
Elenium was also supported by Cibus Group, Harris Carlson and Herbert Smith Freehills for the completion of this transaction.
Elenium designs, develops and manufactures self-service and automation technologies for the aviation sector that can reduce passenger congestion by up to 60 percent whilst enhancing revenues and delivering a better customer experience.
The company’s domain experience, portfolio of solutions, development methodologies and customer centric approach have struck a chord with major international carriers and airports, fueling significant growth in its short history.
How has the company reached the level it’s at?
Launching just over three years ago, Elenium now employs over 50 staff and has more than 600 check-in kiosks in use by 50 airlines across seven airports globally, including Hong Kong, Auckland and Sydney airports.
Aaron Hornlimann is the Elenium Automation CEO and Co-founder. An entrepreneur and technologist, he has been a driving force for some of the most notable innovations in self-service and automation.
In 2015, he was one of 35 Australians to be recognised for their contribution to innovation, being inducted into the Enterprising Australians exhibition at the Australian Science and Technology Centre in Canberra.
Last month, the company signed a partnership with Etihad Airways enabling the airline to white label Elenium’s Voyager app. Supported by Amazon Web Services, the Elenium Voyager App enables a completely seamless airport experience.
Etihad Airways will also install Elenium’s self-service transfer kiosks and tagless bagdrop in phases at the new Midfield Terminal in Abu Dhabi.
What is Elenium planning to use the funds for?
Mr. Hornlimann confirmed the new funds would support new staff hires in 2019, continued product development, the construction of a purpose-built facility at Essendon Fields, and fuel further expansion across overseas markets.
Mr Hornlimann said the speed of Elenium Automation’s growth was thanks to its unique technology, agility and understanding of the future needs of the aviation market – describing it as a Silicon Valley style business in a conservative industry.
“We saw a big opportunity to address the growing challenge of congestion and queues at airports – particularly across Asia where traveller numbers are climbing, and airports don’t have the resources to expand fast enough.
“Our products are designed with a focus on efficiency to speed up passenger flow and increase passenger satisfaction with a seamless airport experience,” Mr Hornlimann said.
He continued, “Elenium applies its advanced automation technologies including machine learning, automated applications and Internet of things (IoT) solutions to optimise operations, ensure greater confidence, drive greater security and business benefits.
“Our culture focuses on building unique, quality solutions and
bringing them to market quickly.”
What attracted the investors to Elenium?
James Douglas from Acorn Capital commented that Elenium Automation was one of Melbourne and Australia’s most exciting new technology businesses.
“As air travel increases and airports become busier, meeting increasing needs for passenger convenience and operational efficiency is critical for the aviation sector,” he said.
“We were very impressed by Elenium Automation’s technology, its passenger flow solutions and depth of expertise and are excited to support them in their next phase of international growth.”
