Pace Is Number One Pay TV STB Supplier

Monday, May 24th, 2010
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IMS Research puts Pace as world’s biggest supplier of set-top boxes to pay TV market

SALTAIRE, West Yorkshire, UK — Pace plc (LSE:PIC) is proud to announce that it is now the world’s largest supplier of set-top boxes to the payTV industry. Findings released today from industry analysts, IMS Research, reveal that Pace shipped more set-top boxes (STBs) in 2009 than any other set-top box developer.

IMS Research figures, which precede its forthcoming study, “The World Market for Set-top Boxes and iDTVs“, show that a major increase in its set-top box sales propelled Pace from third place in 2008 to first in 2009. Pace has delivered incredible growth over the past three years, developing a leadership position by creating and delivering set-top box technology – particularly HD, PVR and hybrid devices – for over 100 of the world’s payTV operators. No other set-top box developer has such a broad product and broadcast platform expertise.

Neil Gaydon, Chief Executive Officer, Pace said: “This is an incredible achievement for our company. It is testament to the continuous innovation and focus in delivering on our strategy to lead in converged home entertainment. We have worked very hard to build a customer-centric organisation, working closely with our partners and consistently delivering outstanding, innovative products. Our people and culture are the driving force behind our becoming the world’s number one.”

2009 was a record year for Pace. The company further increased its revenues and profitability, expanded its global customer base, moved into new markets, developed new technologies and continued to drive efficiencies across the group. In 2009, Pace built on the successful integration of the Philips set-top box division and with this powerful combination went on to deliver substantial organic growth, taking market share in a growing market.

Gaydon continued: “Digital TV continues to evolve at a rapid pace as consumers drive demand for exciting new digital TV services. The Pace team is exceptionally well positioned to capitalise on this opportunity as we continue to bring new and innovative products to market faster than our competitors.”

For 2009, IMS Research’s top five set-top box manufacturers include Pace, Motorola, Technicolor (formerly Thomson), Scientific Atlanta/Cisco Systems, and Humax. Motorola’s position is attributed to its leadership in the cable sector whilst Technicolor’s focus and leadership continues to be in the satellite sector.