Q&A: Raising the Bar for Microbial Risk Management 

Microbial threats are invisible, but their consequences are not. From risks to human health to major infrastructure damage, microbes can have serious operational and public safety impacts. That’s why proactive microbial monitoring is essential: it provides the clarity needed to detect early, respond quickly, and stay ahead of more serious problems. 

As a global leader in applied molecular diagnostics, LuminUltra has been innovating solutions and empowering customers to make confident decisions at the nexus of food, energy, and water systems since 1995.  

As part of its global growth strategy, the XPV portfolio company recently acquired France-based GL Biocontrol (GLB), a leading European company with extensive and trusted microbial monitoring solutions.  

>> Read the September 2025 press release 

We spoke with Pat Whalen, CEO, LuminUltra, and Celia Martinez, President of GL Biocontrol, to learn more about the partnership, how it will fuel growth in the European market, and how coming together strengthens its offerings for customers. 

Tell us about LuminUltra’s recent acquisition. Why is GL Biocontrol a good fit?  

Pat Whalen: GL Biocontrol is a recognized leader in microbial water diagnostics in France and Europe, with deep expertise in Legionella risk management, drinking water safety and microbial management in water reuse. 

From our perspective, the team has done an exceptional job combining advanced testing with consulting, training, and follow-up – turning results into confident action for clients. 

That philosophy aligns perfectly with LuminUltra’s mission: helping industries and communities thrive through better microbial insight. 

Our growth path is about finding the right partners who align with our values and vision for market development. GLB brings local expertise, strong customer relationships and shared values. 

France is also a global leader in microbiology and water management. With this acquisition, we’re not only expanding into the region – we’re also anchoring our European presence there. 

What made LuminUltra a compelling partner for GL Biocontrol? 

Celia Martinez: From the start, it was clear that LuminUltra shared our mission and mindset – they have built their company developing microbial diagnostic tools that lead to real-world impact. 

We’ve built GL Biocontrol on service and trust. LuminUltra valued that – and the team is committed to preserving our ability to uniquely address the needs of the French and broader European markets. 

Joining LuminUltra gives us access to more: a broader portfolio, expanded R&D, and global expertise we can bring to our French and European clients. It also allows us to scale what we already do well, without losing the personal connection that’s been key to our success. This partnership gives us even more opportunity to bring the model we have built in France to the international stage. 

What do you see as the biggest opportunities for LuminUltra and GL Biocontrol in the coming five years? How is the European market changing, and how can you work together to serve the municipal sector? 

Pat: The complexity of microbial challenges continues to grow as water demands evolve. The tools need to keep up to be able to help public sector and industries alike address them. 

Celia: In Europe, we’re seeing rising regulatory expectations, more focus on sustainability, and a need for faster, more actionable data, particularly with the evolution of the European Drinking Water Directive and Water Safety Plans. 

We already support hundreds of municipalities in France. This partnership will allow us to improve support, innovate more, and expand faster. 

Pat: The opportunity is to offer a wider portfolio of products – including from LuminUltra’s core products and services – as well as provide elevated guidance, stronger interpretation, and more valuable outcomes. 

Visit the LuminUltra team at WEFTEC 2025 at Booth 4218.