It would also explain why Taiwan is a good place for a foreigner to run his business. Though ADB has the bulk of its research staff in Poland, Taiwan is where the manufacturers of its boxes are, so proximity is a natural advantage.
But that doesn't mean it sells predominantly in Taiwan. Australia, Thailand and Europe are big markets for ADB. Its staff of 152 consists of 67 salespeople with offices in Australia, the US, Britain and South Africa. In 1998, it shipped 350,000 units, generating US$65 million in revenue, a 400 percent jump over 1997. Its full-year 1999 revenues were projected at US$200 million, thanks to lucrative contracts which were signed with companies in Australia, Europe and China.
China, quite obviously, presents huge potential. ADB's deal last year, with Legend Computers -- China's clear leader in PC sales -- involved a technology transfer for its software so that the set-top boxes can be manufactured on the mainland.
With such a buzz, it seems natural that ADB will pursue an IPO. Rydecki says it will come this year. "But I'm still open to suggestions from investment banks on how it should be conducted," he says.
For further details, the company's marketing director, Tim Brewer, may be contacted via e-mail at t.brewer@adb.com.tw
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