Microfluidics International Corp. is putting its middle name to more use.
The Newton, Mass.-based manufacturer of material-processing tools inked a distribution deal with ATS Scientific Inc., extending its reach across most of Canada. Under the deal, ATS will be the exclusive distributor in Canada of the Microfluidizer processor, which uses fluids to break apart biological materials into uniform particles.
ATS also will handle all customs and Canadian certification responsibilities for Microfluidics, according to a press release.
Just under half of Microfluidics’ $14.9 million in sales during 2008 were generated in North America, including Canada. That share had been slipping in recent years, declining more than 10 percent between 2006 and 2008, due in part, the company said, to distribution problems in Canada and Japan. North American sales rebounded last year, rising to 62.6 percent of revenues and following overall sales increases during the first nine months of 2009.
Privately held ATS Scientific, based in Burlington, Ont., markets scientific instruments and related items throughout much of Canada. ATS officials said the Microfluidizer will complement its current product offerings, helping the company to better resolve processing challenges for its customers.
“We see great synergy with our existing products in material handling and processing,” said Gilles Groulx, national sales manager at ATS, adding he expects the new partnership will create “excellent” cross-marketing opportunities.
Microfluidics plans to continue its relationship with Garland Technical Services, which will offer the company’s product in Vancouver and the rest of British Columbia.
