Powerlase expands after big year

CRAWLEY, UK - In response to escalating demand for its diode-pumped solid-state lasers, Powerlase is expanding operations, including occupying an extra 12,800 sq ft space in a new building to increase capacity threefold during 2006. The expansion follows the laser innovator’s impressive 233% growth year-on-year and the company being listed as fifth fastest growing venture capital-backed company in the UK (according to research firm Library House).

Tony King, Powerlase Executive Director and COO says: “We are showing tremendous growth through our ongoing commitment to product innovation and quality customer service,” said Tony King, Powerlase executive director and COO. “Our expansion reflects wider industry recognition of the use of lasers in manufacturing and is a direct response to our position as a primary supplier of high power lasers in the field of ITO ablation in the flat panel display industry.”

Powerlase plans to devote more than 50% of its new facility to assembly, alignment, and testing. Part of the area will also be used to extend reliability testing of components and laser systems. The company says the new space will also enable it to increase its manufacturing capacity by around 300% over 2006, with the ability for further expansion in 2007 and beyond.

“We are continuing to invest heavily in research and development to make sure that the giant strides made to date continue into the future,” King said. “Our expansion plans include the development of several dedicated applications and development labs which will be announced shortly.”