Cornwall tech firm powers US launch of frictionless facial recognition access

Salto VisionWorks, a Cornwall-based facial recognition access specialist based at Tremough Innovation Centre in Penryn, has launched into the US market.

Founded in Cornwall over a decade ago by a two-person team, Salto VisionWorks has grown to 15 staff with plans to reach 20 by the end of the year. Originally TouchByte, the business became part of global door access firm Salto in 2023, which provides entry systems to more than 40 countries worldwide.

Having already processed around 750,000 people, the company’s facial recognition technology now provides secure, seamless access to offices, gyms and facilities across higher education, health and care, residential and critical industries sectors.

Jeremy Sneller, Managing Director at Salto VisionWorks, commented: “We started in Cornwall 11 years ago with a small team and a big idea – to use face recognition to make everyday access simpler and more secure. Launching in the US with a huge stand in Las Vegas is a milestone for us, and it’s one we’re proud to reach while still based here at Tremough Innovation Centre.

The technology itself is focused on convenience, not surveillance. Our system doesn’t store faces; it stores an algorithm, so people can enjoy the benefits of frictionless access without feeling like they’re being watched. Using your face as a secure identifier instead of cards, fobs, or wristbands opens up huge potential, so we’re excited for what comes next.”

Salto VisionWorks has also recently showcased its technology in Germany and is planning further expansion into Norway and the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, in the second half of the year.

Jeremy added, “Cornwall is a brilliant hub of ambitious, bright individuals, and we’re committed to creating high-value tech careers for young people here, with most of our team aged 35 and under, including apprentices.

Our local community is a big part of why we stay based in Penryn, and through the Salto Foundation, we’re proud to support local charity Turn to Starboard, which helps veterans through sail training and sea-based experiences. As part of this partnership, the Foundation has funded an engine for one of the charity’s boats, which will go on to compete in the Invictus Games.”

Matt Harrington, Head of Cornwall Innovation Centres, said: “Salto VisionWorks is a brilliant example of how a company rooted in Cornwall can develop world-leading technology and export it globally. From powering secure, touchless entry at Tremough Innovation Centre to exhibiting on huge stands in the US and Europe, the team is putting Cornish innovation firmly on the map, whilst supporting the local community around them.

It’s exciting to see this level of growth happen from within our centres, and to know that the careers and community impact created by Salto VisionWorks are being driven from Penryn to the rest of the world.”