Pulse Data triumphs at Hi Tech Awards

Pulse Data triumphs at Hi Tech Awards

Pulse Data International, the Christchurch based company that designs and manufactures products for the visually impaired, was awarded Hi Tech Exporter of the Year and Electronic Company of the Year at the WestpacTrust New Zealand Hi Tech Excellence Awards in Christchurch on Saturday night.

Judges recognised Pulse Data as a dynamic company that demonstrated excellent customer focus, product research and innovation and a brilliant marketing strategy.

Company CEO Dr Russell Smith, the original founder of Pulse Data, said he was “delighted that the company had been named winner in both categories. These awards recognise the enthusiasm and dedication of all Pulse Data employees and reflect our commitment to maintaining our position as the most innovative company in the industry.”

Designed to promote, encourage and celebrate the wealth of innovative, quality hi- tech organisations in New Zealand, the Hi Tech Awards acknowledge companies whose prime is the research, development and/or delivery of technology or engineering products. These awards reflect the tremendous achievements, innovation and export triumphs increasingly evident within our hi-tech industry.

“These awards are especially significant given that we are operating in a niche market where 4% of the population has an eye condition that requires them to use one of our products,” said Dr Smith.

Pulse Data has achieved high levels of revenue growth in the last five years, with 76% achieved in 2001 and 42% achieved in 2002. Dr Smith said Pulse Data’s phenomenal growth in recent years has been driven partly by an expansion of its distribution networks, and partly through the launch of new products especially the BrailleNote range of personal information management systems for the blind.

The successes of the SmartView and BrailleNote products have helped Pulse Data become internationally recognised as the most innovative company in its field. Pulse Data continues to maintain that leadership position and continue to grow its export business through a combination of new product development and the enhancement and expansion of existing and potential markets.

About Pulse Data Formed in 1988, Pulse Data now exports approximately 98% of its products worldwide to more than 30 countries. Sales offices have been established in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Sweden, The Netherlands, Australia and New Zealand and the company supports a strong distribution network throughout North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.