AIM INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COUNCIL (AIM-IBC) ANNOUNCES 2012 GLOBAL TRADE AWARD WINNERS

Recipients Recognized for Exemplifying Job Growth and Trade Enhancement in Technology, Manufacturing and Life Sciences

BOSTON, April 23, 2012 – The Associated Industries of Massachusetts International Business Council (AIM-IBC) announced recipients of its 17th annual Global Trade Awards, which recognize Massachusetts firms, institutions and public agencies of all sizes that have demonstrated excellence in international trade. 2012 honorees include Dassault Systèmes, Diamond Machining Technology, and Immunetics, Inc.

“This year’s winners illustrate that the Commonwealth is a great place for diverse companies to compete successfully in international markets, as our winners span the technology, manufacturing and life science industries,” said Kristen Rupert, AIM International Business Council executive director.  “In addition to making advancements overseas in each of their respective fields, our 2012 Global Trade Award winners are giving back to the Massachusetts economy through job growth, trade enhancement and global partnerships.”

Winners will be honored at AIM’s 97th Annual Meeting on Friday, May 11 at the Waltham Westin Hotel.  The event will include an education leadership panel “College and Career Readiness Efforts in Massachusetts Public Schools”, as well as a keynote by Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley.

2012 Global Trade Award Winners

Chairman’s Award
Dassault Systèmes North America
Waltham, MA (Middlesex County)

Dassault Systèmes, a world leader in 3D design, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management software solutions, is based in France and has operations in 80 countries.  Its solutions are used in numerous industry sectors including aerospace, consumer packaged goods, fashion, medical devices and automotive. Dassault Systèmes first came to Massachusetts in 1997 when it acquired Solidworks. In 2011, it opened its state-of-the-art North American headquarters in Waltham.  Clients in Massachusetts include companies that manufacture athletic shoes, personal grooming products, and flying automobiles. Dassault Systèmes’ solutions were used to design and manufacture the Boeing Dreamliner. The company currently employs nearly 900 in Massachusetts, and plans to increase employment by 10% in 2012.

Diplomat’s Award
Diamond Machining Technology
Marlborough, MA (Middlesex County)

Diamond Machining Technology (DMT), founded in 1976, designs, manufactures and distributes diamond-coated sharpening tools through resellers in all 50 states and 30 countries.  DMT’s business has multiple market segments including hardware, woodworking, gardening, culinary, outdoor sports (hunting, fishing and camping) and speed skating.  The Dutch and Chinese Olympic speed skating teams use DMT sharpening stones to maintain a competitive “edge.” All the company’s manufacturing is done in Massachusetts.  The company has built a strong international distribution network, and its U.S. and foreign patents have been critical in helping the company secure new market positions overseas.  DMT’s export sales have increased 65% over the past two years, largely because of the introduction of new products and entry into new markets in Russia and Eastern Europe.

Ambassador’s Award
Immunetics, Inc
Boston, MA (Suffolk County)

Founded in 1987, Immunetics, Inc. researches, develops, manufactures and markets diagnostic products for a variety of bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases including Lyme disease and HIV.  Products are manufactured in Immunetics’ facility in the Seaport “Innovation” District of Boston, where the company employs 33.  Immunetics utilizes several export sales and marketing channels, including international distributors, NGOs, and hospitals and clinics, which provide critical access to hands-on medical professionals who diagnose and treat patients and are the end-users of Immunetics products. Primary export markets for Immunetics are Europe, Africa, Mexico, Canada and India.  International business accounts for 40% of the company’s total sales.

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About the AIM International Business Council
The AIM International Business Council helps Massachusetts employers engage in international trade and expand their global business activities. Through seminars, referrals, and e-newsletters, the AIM International Business Council provides companies with the resources they need. www.aimnet.org/international.

About Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM)
Established in 1915, Associated Industries of Massachusetts is the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan association of Massachusetts employers.  With 6,000 member companies employing more than 500,000 people in Mass., AIM’s mission is to promote the well-being and prosperity of the Commonwealth by improving the State’s economic climate, proactively advocating fair and equitable public policy and providing relevant, reliable information and excellent services.  For further information, visit www.aimnet.org.