Business briefs
17 Jun 2002
Including news from Spectra-Physics, Kodak, Sanyo, Lumenis and more.
North America is taking a global lead in optical modulators with a 37.1 % market share that is worth USD 100.1 million, reports US-based
Electronicast. The market forecaster believes that growth will increase to 40.3 % per annum over the next five years reaching a value of USD 1.37 billion by 2006.
US-based
Kodak has joined forces with
Sanyo, Japan, to manufacture organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays. The SK Display Corporation will launch a pilot facility early next year and is aiming for full production by 2003. "We expect to generate USD 500 million in OLED display sales by 2005," said Kodak's chief executive Daniel Carp.
German laser diode start-up
Unique Mode has secured its second round of funding from Germany-based Jenoptik's venture capital company DEWB. Unique Mode will now expand its production facilities in a bid to reach high volume production.
Medical laser manufacturer
Lumenis of Israel has completed its buyout of US-based HGM Medical Systems, also a medical laser maker. Lumenis chief executive Yacha Sutton expects that the move will increase its full year 2002 earnings by USD 4 million. "This acquistion is a good fit with Lumenis and reinforces our leadership in the ophthalmic laser marketplace," he said.
The board of directors of laser manufacturer
Spectra-Physics, US, is remaining in a neutral position with respect to the
Thermo Electron Corporation's unsolicited tender offer for all of Spectra's shares. Stockholders are to make their own decision on whether to accept the USD 17.50 per share offer.
