Årets Villsau,The Hordaland Export Award was presented this Tuesday to the Bergen-based company TTS Marine ASA, a company producing ships and shipyard / port equipment.
- It is a great acknowledgment for us to be presented with this award. We are extremely proud of having developed from being a small company in Bergen to becoming a large international corporation, says Johannes Neteland, managing director of the company.
TTS’ turnover increased from NOK 1.15 billion in 2005 to NOK 1.6 billion in 2006, an increase of 40 percent. The TTS-share has gone up from NOK 18 in 2004 to approx. NOK 67.75 as per 26 March 2007.
Only 6 percent of the company’s turnover is generated in Norway, while a full 96 percent of its turnover is generated abroad.
- There is no simple answer regarding how to succeed as an exporting company, but I believe that what we have done right is to focus on being present in the various markets, says Neteland.
He emphasises knowledge of cultural differences and local conditions as important elements of success. The company’s plan for the next few years is an increased targeting of the offshore market.
Årets Villsau (The Wild Sheep of the Year Award) is presented by Hordaland County Council, Innovation Norway and Bergen Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The wild sheep has been chosen as an award because of its strength, endurance and modesty. The panel of judges considers companies which receive the award to share many of the same qualities as the wild sheep. This year is the fifth time that the award has been presented.
Bergen, 28 March 2007
