TouchStar Technologies supply data collection and mobile computing solutions.

What TouchStar Technologies supply data collection and mobile computing solutions. does

TouchStar Technologies Ltd is a Manchester-based provider of integrated logistics and security technology solutions, operating as the primary trading subsidiary of AIM-listed TouchStar plc (TST). Founded in 1984 with 40+ years of accumulated domain expertise, the company designs, manufactures, and supports proprietary software platforms and rugged mobile hardware used by enterprise and mid-market customers across the UK and selected European markets. Its portfolio is organised around three core franchises: PODStar electronic proof of delivery (covering parcel, general logistics, healthcare, food distribution, and multi-sector delivery operations), FuelStar bulk proof of delivery (purpose-built for LPG, bulk fuel, home heating oil, and biomass distribution with ATEX-certified Android hardware), and a Fire and Security suite comprising access control, CCTV, intruder and fire alarm systems, and time and attendance — the latter anchored by the Evolution software platform and Evo CiCo employee clocking device.

Underlying the portfolio is a vertically integrated stack: in-house developed software delivered as cloud-hosted SaaS on Microsoft Azure, UK-manufactured rugged mobile computers (TS82 handhelds, TS72 truck-mounted terminals, TS3300 ATEX in-cab device, wearables), and the EvoLink integration platform with a fully published API for connecting to customer ERP, WMS, accounts, and CRM systems. TouchStar integrates with third-party ecosystems including Honeywell, Zebra, Hikvision (Platinum Partner), SOTI MobiControl, Principle ProWMS, and Minster WMS. NSI Gold, BAFE, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO 9001, Cyber Essentials Plus, SafeContractor, SSIP, and Constructionline Silver accreditations underpin eligibility for enterprise and UK public sector procurement, including the Crown Commercial Service RM6264 DPS.

The business model combines one-time hardware capital sales, recurring SaaS subscriptions, professional services for system design and integration, and multi-year support and maintenance contracts. Pricing is bespoke and quote-based, with multi-year contracts typical. Go-to-market is sales-led through dedicated UK field account managers, an inside sales team handling mid-market enquiries, a certified technology partner network, and free system audits and demonstrations as primary conversion levers. Named enterprise customers span fuel distribution (Calor, Flogas, WP Group, DCC Energi), retail and home shopping (Lakeland, Damart, PWS), warehousing and manufacturing (Magnavale, Cepac, British Sugar, Voestalpine Metsec), education (Aston University), healthcare (Worcestershire NHS, Gateshead NHS), and assessment services (Reed Assessment across 135 sites), with several relationships spanning more than 20 years.

Name

TouchStar Technologies supply data collection and mobile computing solutions.

Legal name

TouchStar Technologies Ltd

Website

https://touchstar.co.uk

Company type

Public

Founded year

1984

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

51–100 employees

Short description

TouchStar Technologies is a UK-based provider of integrated logistics and security technology solutions, supplying proprietary electronic proof-of-delivery software (PODStar, FuelStar), ATEX-certified rugged mobile hardware, and fire and security systems to enterprise and public sector customers across fuel, logistics, retail, healthcare, and education.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Mobile Computing and Logistics Software

NAICS

Security Systems Services (except Locksmiths) (561621), Computer Terminal and Other Computer Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing (334118), Computer Systems Design and Related Services (54151)

SIC

Computer Peripheral Equipment, Nec (3577)

akta.pro primary industry

Rugged Handhelds & Mobile Computers (HDACALAB)

Keywords

• Electronic proof of delivery
• Rugged mobile computing
• Bulk fuel management
• Commercial security systems
• Workforce management software

Headquarters

HQ city

Manchester

HQ country

United Kingdom

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Software

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure, Supply Chain

Revenue model

1. Rugged Mobile Hardware Sales: Sale of proprietary and third-party rugged mobile computing devices including handhelds, wearables, truck-mounted units, and ATEX-certified hardware. Hardware is sold as one-time capital purchases, typically bundled with software and support packages.
2. Enterprise Software Licences and Subscriptions: Software platforms including PODStar, FuelStar, and Evolution are delivered as cloud-hosted SaaS applications on Microsoft Azure. Customers access the platform via subscription. Integration and customisation services are also bundled.
3. Professional Services: TouchStar provides system design, installation, IT consultancy, project management, training, and ongoing technical support as professional services. Services are delivered by in-house engineering and consultancy teams across the UK.
4. Support and Maintenance Contracts: Ongoing maintenance and support contracts covering security systems, rugged mobile devices, fuel management systems, logistics platforms, and workforce management. Offered as recurring service agreements with flexible packages.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels9 records

Core offering

TouchStar Technologies provides integrated data collection and mobile computing solutions for industrial and commercial applications. The portfolio includes electronic proof of delivery software (PODStar), bulk fuel distribution software (FuelStar) with ATEX-certified mobile computers, fire and security systems (access control, CCTV, fire alarms, intruder alarms), time and attendance systems, and UK-manufactured rugged mobile computing devices. TouchStar also delivers IT consultancy, system integration via the EvoLink platform, installation, training, and ongoing support and maintenance services across the UK and Ireland.

Product overview

TouchStar Technologies is a UK-based provider of integrated logistics and security technology solutions. The portfolio comprises three core product lines: PODStar (electronic proof of delivery for parcel, general logistics, and multi-sector delivery operations), FuelStar (bulk proof of delivery for fuel and LPG distribution with ATEX-certified hardware), and Fire & Security systems (access control, fire alarms, intruder alarms, CCTV, and time and attendance). The company also manufactures rugged mobile computing devices including handhelds, truck mounts, in-vehicle computers, wearables, and ATEX-certified units. Supporting services include IT consultancy, system integration via the EvoLink platform, and comprehensive maintenance support. All solutions are designed, developed, and supported in-house with UK-based expertise.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• PODStar Electronic Proof of Delivery End-to-end electronic proof of delivery software for parcel and general logistics that replaces paper-based delivery notes with a fully digital, real-time system. Includes job scheduling, route planning, driver and vehicle tracking, vehicle inspection, invoicing, and customer portal functionality for logistics operators, parcel delivery companies, food distributors, healthcare and construction suppliers, and 3PL providers.
• FuelStar Bulk Proof of Delivery Comprehensive fuel management and electronic proof of delivery solution for bulk fuel, LPG, home heating oil, and biomass distribution operations. Integrates tachograph, flow meter, valve control, telematics, and printer data into an in-cab command centre connecting planning office, drivers, transport office, and accounts office in real time for hazardous fuel environments.
• Access Control Systems Modular access control and door access control systems for enhanced business security across single and multi-site facilities. Includes design, installation, upgrading, and ongoing support of access control hardware integrated with role-based permissions, real-time personnel tracking, and audit logging through the Evolution software platform.
• CCTV Systems NSI Gold approved CCTV design, installation, and support including advanced monitoring and intelligent security features for commercial premises, healthcare facilities, educational sites, and assessment centres with rapid footage retrieval and HD imaging for safeguarding and operational visibility.
• Commercial Fire Alarm Systems Fire detection and alarm systems for commercial premises including supply, installation, upgrading, and ongoing support of fire protection products, designed to BS5839-1 standards and delivered with NSI Gold and BAFE accreditations.
• Intruder Alarm Systems Commercial intruder alarm systems providing proactive protection for single and multi-site facilities, including detection, alert, and monitoring across commercial, healthcare, education, and public sector premises.
• Time and Attendance Systems Employee time clocking solutions including the Evo CiCo modern time clock delivering real-time attendance and security features for workforce management across single and multiple sites, with payroll integration that has enabled customers such as Coolcare to reduce overpaid hours by 335,000.
• Rugged Mobile Computers UK-manufactured rugged mobile computing devices including handhelds (TS82), truck-mounted terminals (TS72), in-vehicle computers, and wearable devices built to withstand drops, water, dust, vibrations, and extreme temperatures for warehouse, depot, and field service operations.
• ATEX-Certified Mobile Computers ATEX-certified mobile computers including the TS3300 in-cab command centre integrating tachograph, flow meter, valve control, telematics, and printer data, designed specifically for hazardous oil and gas environments such as LPG and bulk fuel distribution fleets.
• EvoLink Integration Platform Integration platform connecting PODStar and FuelStar with existing ERP, WMS, accounts, and CRM platforms via a fully published API with telephone and on-site support, enabling rapid deployment and seamless data flow across customer back-office systems.
• IT Consultancy Services Expert IT consultancy including system design, architecture, integration, business process analysis, compliance and cybersecurity, and project management delivered by in-house engineering and consultancy teams across the UK.
• Support and Maintenance Services Comprehensive support covering security systems, rugged mobile devices, fuel management systems, logistics platforms, and workforce management systems with proactive maintenance, 24/7 technical support, and flexible managed service packages across the UK.

Quantifiable outcome

• Paper reduction of 80% and significantly reduced credit notes
• +6 more outcomes

Named customers24 records

Segments10 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

Yes

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration6 records

AI capability6 records

Feature9 records

Partnerships

Nine partnerships are on record, tiered core and secondary.

• HoneywellcoreTechnology or IntegrationTouchStar is a Honeywell Silver Performance Partner, integrating Honeywell's products, software, and connected solutions with TouchStar's logistics and security platforms. Honeywell provides industrial scanning and mobility technology that complements TouchStar's rugged mobile computing offerings.
• Zebra TechnologiescoreTechnology or IntegrationTouchStar is a Zebra Business Partner, integrating Zebra's enterprise-grade mobile computers, scanners, and printers with TouchStar's software platforms. Zebra devices are used in TouchStar's proof of delivery and rugged mobile solutions (e.g., Zebra printer paired with TS3300 for Calor Ireland).
• UnitechsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationUnitech provides rugged, enterprise-grade mobile computers with durable, connected solutions for logistics, warehousing, and field service. TouchStar integrates Unitech devices within its logistics and security ecosystem.
• HikvisioncoreTechnology or IntegrationTouchStar is an appointed Hikvision Platinum Partner. As a certified professional, TouchStar provides the full Hikvision CCTV portfolio from supply and installation to ongoing support, offering end-users access to certified professionals for total security camera solutions.
• DVS Real InstallerssecondaryImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerPartnered with DVS Real Installers, TouchStar has been vetted and verified as expert installers of CCTV in the B2B sector, ensuring quality installation standards for CCTV deployments.
• SOTIsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationTouchStar integrates SOTI MobiControl, an Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) solution, providing real-time visibility, control, and security over TouchStar's business-critical mobile devices deployed in rugged environments.
• Principle Logistics TechnologiessecondaryTechnology or IntegrationPrinciple's ProWMS Advanced Warehouse Management Software is integrated with TouchStar's rugged mobile computing solutions for single or multi-site warehouse operations.
• MinstersecondaryTechnology or IntegrationMinster WMS is a market leader in contract food service distribution systems, integrated with TouchStar's logistics and security platforms for food logistics customers.
• UK & Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA)coreOthersTouchStar is a proud member of UKIFDA, the trade body representing heating oil distributors. Membership provides a collective voice, industry support, best practice guidance, and access to events including regional meetings, conferences, and the annual UKIFDA EXPO.

Scale indicators9 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Chubb Fire & Security: UK-based integrated fire, security, and access control systems provider serving enterprise, retail, and public sector customers. Competes directly with TouchStar's Fire and Security division, including access control, CCTV, intruder, and fire alarm system design, installation, and maintenance.
• Zebra Technologies: Global leader in rugged enterprise mobile computers, scanners, and printers. Both partner and competitor to TouchStar: TouchStar integrates Zebra devices into PODStar/FuelStar solutions (e.g., Calor Ireland), but Zebra's TC and MC series compete directly against TouchStar's TS82/TS72 rugged handhelds in warehouse and logistics deployments.
• Hikvision: TouchStar is a Hikvision Platinum Partner, reselling and installing Hikvision CCTV products in the UK. Hikvision is also a direct competitor supplying camera and surveillance hardware that enterprises could otherwise procure and deploy themselves, bypassing integration services like TouchStar's.
• Getac: Specialist manufacturer of rugged tablets, laptops, and handheld mobile computers used in field service, logistics, and industrial environments. Direct competitor to TouchStar's rugged handheld and in-vehicle product line for warehouse, utility, and hazardous-environment deployments.
• Panasonic Connect (Toughbook): Manufacturer of Panasonic Toughbook rugged laptops, tablets, and handhelds widely used in logistics, field service, and public sector deployments. Competes directly against TouchStar's rugged mobile computing hardware in the UK enterprise and emergency services market.

Emerging players

• Verkada: Cloud-native, AI-enabled physical security platform offering integrated CCTV, access control, and intrusion detection as a subscription. An emerging player reshaping the same UK commercial security market TouchStar's security division serves, with a frictionless OPEX model that challenges traditional hardware-plus-installation integrators.
• SOTI: Enterprise mobility management (EMM) provider whose MobiControl platform TouchStar integrates with to manage rugged devices in the field. Adjacent enabling technology rather than a direct competitor, but SOTI's expanding device-management capabilities could overlap with portions of TouchStar's EvoLink integration platform over time.

Broad incumbents

• Descartes Systems Group: Global provider of logistics technology including route planning, electronic proof-of-delivery, and transportation management software. A broader incumbent whose mobile logistics software competes with TouchStar's PODStar and FuelStar offerings at enterprise scale.
• ADT (commercial division): Large commercial security systems integrator offering monitored CCTV, access control, intruder alarms, and fire detection across UK enterprise and multi-site customers. A broader incumbent operating at greater scale than TouchStar's security business unit.
• Honeywell: TouchStar is a Honeywell Silver Performance Partner, integrating Honeywell mobility and scanning devices. Honeywell's broader portfolio of rugged mobile computers, warehouse technology, and security systems overlaps with TouchStar's full stack at much greater scale, making it a broad incumbent in the same product categories TouchStar serves.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/touchstar-technologies-ltd
• Xx.com/touchstartechno
• Facebookfacebook.com/136601006389911

Compliance9 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about TouchStar Technologies supply data collection and mobile computing solutions.