Night vision specialist sets sights on growth
A NIGHT vision product manufacturer is expecting to double turnover and create new jobs with the launch of a new innovation.
NiteSite, which has been supported by the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS), has developed the NiteSite ‘Spotter’, a new handheld unit that provides a guaranteed range of 400 yards.
The York-based company is entering full production on the device and, following successful exhibitions in Germany and Las Vegas, will officially launch it to the marketplace in June.
As a result, sales are expected to hit £800,000 this year, marking a major transformation in fortunes from its launch in 2011, when all members of staff – including the directors – worked through the night to assemble more than 200 units.
Jake Horwell, European sales manager, said: “The business has been based on innovation from day one and we are continually talking to the market about what solutions they are looking for.
“Our original products – the NS50 and NS200– have been a huge success and helped provide us with a platform to build on. The impending launch of the ‘Spotter’ marks the next stage in affordable night vision technology.”
He went on to add: “The Spotter is going to be extremely affordable and we expect it to be very popular with hunters and the security market. Our products are different because they have successfully replaced expensive technology associated with the sector, with a much simpler process that is based on the principles of a security camera system.”
MAS advisor John Dodgson visited the business to understand the project and develop an action plan that involved bringing in product design specialists LDT Design to help with the development process.
MAS provided funding for three consecutive projects that firstly involved concept design, market research and 2D foam sketch models then led on to a 3D CAD model of the surface which was suitable for soft tooling.
The final assistance focused on developing the 3D design so that the product could be manufactured using injection moulding production techniques and was suitable for full-scale manufacture.
Mr Dodgson said: “Every now and again you come across a company that truly understands its market and, more importantly, shares a business-wide desire to innovate.
“NiteSite is one such example and, better still, they have not been afraid to seek external help when they need it. By tapping into MAS, we have provided strategic and financial support – the latter focused on calling in the dedicated expertise of LDT Design, who have made a phenomenal difference.”
MAS, which is funded by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), works for manufacturers and through experienced advisors can help shape strategy, create new products, reduce waste and review supply chains.
