Orion announces 10% cornerstone stake in Pulse Data International 

Christchurch-based electricity network company Orion New Zealand has today announced it has taken a 10% stake in the successful Christchurch company, Pulse Data International, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of electronic devices for totally blind and partially sighted people. 
Announcing the move, Orion managing director Chris Laurie said Orion’s cornerstone investment in Pulse Data International meant the company could now expand its global business, with spin-off for employment and the Christchurch economy.

“Pulse Data International has been very successful in recent years and has gained an international reputation for designing and manufacturing electronic aids for totally blind and partially sighted people. We are very pleased to be involved in funding the next phase in the company’s growth.”

Since its formation in 1988, Pulse Data has been largely management-owned. “As a Canterbury-based investor, we are keen to invest in local companies which will benefit from our involvement,” Mr Laurie says.

Welcoming the investment, Pulse Data’s Managing Director Russell Smith says Orion’s sound backing and support will allow the company to continue its expansion. “We can now continue to expand our product range and our operations and growth internationally.”

The investment in Pulse Data is one of a number of successful investments Orion has in technology companies. Its investment in energy-related technologies and infrastructure began in the early 1990s. Over the years it has built up considerable expertise in managing investments. 

Income and capital gains from Orion’s investments, which included the gas network company Enerco, have contributed to the company’s ability to provide significant dividends to its shareholders, the Christchurch City Council and Selwyn and Banks Peninsula Councils, in recent years.