Saelig Co. Inc.

About Saelig: Importer of unique industrial electronics.

Rank on Top 100: 100

Top Executive: Mr. Alan Lowne

Employees: 10

Website: www.saelig.com

We asked, Alan Lowne, CEO, to talk about his business.

Question: Tell me briefly about Saelig.
Lowne: Saelig specializes in finding unique industrial electronic products not previously available in the US and creating a market for them. Our service originates with continuous product search, leading to marketing (including product photography and publicity), distribution, and technical support. "Saelig" is an Old English word meaning "happy, prosperous, and blessed", which is what we want for both our staff and customers.

Question:What new products can consumers expect to see this year?
Lowne: We will introduce additions to our range of very affordable standalone LCD oscilloscopes, as well as state-of-the art ICs for controlling touch switches and simplifying USB and Ethernet connections; new, faster data loggers (including wireless loggers) and improved PC scope adapters.
And since we have gained a reputation for bringing new, unique products to the US, we will be selling products this year that don't yet exist.

Question: What differentiates Saelig from its competitors?
Lowne: Our service is unique for overseas (and some domestic) companies wanting to create a presence in the US because we can provide both promotional and technical sales capabilities, acting as part of the manufacturer's own team. We have an advantage in the marketplace because we carefully select unique products that bring repeat sales. In addition, our engineers handle complex technical inquiries. We are also very familiar with international shipping issues and strive to exceed customer expectations with on-time deliveries, prompt technical response, and superior after-sales support. Critical factors in our success are: the selection of unique, in-demand products, prompt response to all inquiries, helpful technical pre- and post-sales support, up-to-date website and online store; and, above all, acting with integrity - and realizing that we are "blessed" - in all our activities.

Question: What does it mean to your business to be recognized by the Rochester Business Alliance as one of Rochester's Top 100 Companies?
Lowne: It is important for us to gain recognition for our consistent company growth, since "success breeds success".

Question: What signs of optimism do you see in the local economy?
Lowne: I see empty office space declining. But since we sell our goods both nationwide and internationally, Saelig does not need to rely on local sales.

Question: What are the biggest opportunities you see ahead, as well as the biggest challenges?
Lowne: The biggest opportunities are yet to be discovered in products currently being developed.
The biggest challenges are:

• finding those products
• maintaining profitability despite high New York taxes
• continually finding new products to sell since each has a limited life due to competition and innovation
• to make sure Saelig remains a "fun place to work" as we continue to grow.