An Isle of Wight producer of marine security, internal communications and audio-visual equipment is on the crest of a wave after securing a six-figure overseas contract.

AVO Systems Ltd has received orders totalling £100,000 from AMI SALES, a distributor of marine products in Australia and South East Asia, following a successful marketing trip to Australia.

Vessels from Portugal, Canada, Hong Kong and the Philippines are already fitted with AVO Systems’ most popular products – the CT4 and CT8 waterproof CCTV cameras and TC4000 intercom.

Formed in 1995 by Managing Director John Wheeler, AVO Systems Ltd also supplies waterproof cameras and intercom systems to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and the Royal Navy; and full audio-visual installations, such as the  passenger entertainment and information systems for the Isle of Man Steampacket Company.

So, how did a small company from the Isle of Wight become such a global success? Aware that there was an international market for its products, AVO approached UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) South East in 2004 and joined its Passport to Export (P2E) programme of assistance for new and inexperienced exporters. This 12-to-18-month package of advice and support includes a full company diagnostic, development of an export action plan, subsidised training and up to £1,500 of matched funding.

AVO worked closely with UKTI International Trade Adviser (ITA) Pauline Rippon on its export strategy, evaluating new markets and refining its marketing approach.

In January 2006, on Pauline’s advice, John Wheeler attended the Pacific 2006 International Maritime Conference in Sydney.

John said:

“I was pretty excited, it’s a very competitive market.  I took samples of our key products to the show and arranged meetings with potential customers so they could test the equipment. Who would have thought, three years on, the main company that I demonstrated our products to, AMI SALES, would become our biggest client!”

Pauline Rippon said:

“AVO Systems has now completed Passport to Export, and progressed to UKTI’s Gateway to Global Growth programme, which is aimed at more experienced exporters.  A range of services are available – from an in-depth review to assess the company’s export profile, to specialist training and Market Visit Support (MVS).

“As part of the Gateway scheme, AVO will be entitled to a free BA flight to attend Pacific 2010 in Australia next January. Companies eligible for Gateway to Global Growth have annual sales of less than €50 million, and employ fewer than 250 staff.”

Pacific 2010 will provide an ideal showcase for AVO’s intercom systems and an opportunity to meet potential representatives and customers from around the world.

In March 2010, AVO will be attending the Dubai International Boat Show, one of the top five leisure marine events in the world. The company will be eligible to receive £1,000 in UKTI Solo exhibition support to research its market, network and sales pipeline at the event.

AVO’s latest product, specifically designed for the Super Yacht industry, is a waterproof ”master station” for its intercom system, allowing users to access 16 stations, rather than the standard eight. The company has just received its first delivery and plans are in train for a high-impact sales drive.

For more information about AVO Systems Ltd,  go to www.avosystems.com