October 22, 2007 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce and Michael Arcuri (D – NY) jointly presented the department's "Exporter of the Year" award to Fiber Instrument Sales, Inc. (FIS), a supplier and manufacturer of fiber-optic products which are distributed worldwide.
The award was sponsored by ThinkGlobal Inc., the publisher of Commercial News USA, which is the official export promotion magazine of the U.S. Commerce Department. FIS won the award in the Information Technology/Telecommunications category.
According to a press release, FIS was chosen for the award based on the total number of documented export deals the company completed in 2005; total percentage increase in sales in 2005 compared to 2004; and exports as percentage of total sales. Also considered was the company's commitments to exporting, and to customer service, as well as innovation and originality in marketing products or services.
FIS' total export sales in 2005 increased 27% from 2004, and now represent 20% of the company's total sales. Founded in 1985, the company began exporting in 1990.
"One of the secrets to our exporting success is that we truly empower our employees," remarks FIS president and CEO Frank Giotto. "We have given them the responsibility for making their own business decisions and to take the initiative in developing new products, programs and distribution channels. As a result, we have exceptional employees who have made our products competitive in world markets."
Gregory Sandler, publisher of Commercial News USA, contends that the success of FIS is indicative of how American companies can benefit from exporting. "With 95% of the world's market outside the U.S., there is significant growth opportunity for American manufacturers and service providers," says Sandler.
The award was presented to FIS at its corporate headquarters in Oriskany, New York on October 19. The presentation was followed by a press conference and luncheon attended by government officials and business leaders who attended in recognition of FIS' achievement.
FIS is a manufacturer and distributor of communication fiber-optic test equipment, connectors, cable and cable assemblies, tools and tool kits, fiber-optic consumable products, and other items.
