Products and technology

At the beginning of 2009, all Vaisala's product creation and management activities were combined into a group level Products and Technology unit. One common unit will help ensure synergies and utilize and develop common technology platforms.

The key to Vaisala's success is its diverse research and development activity, and the combined input in technology development is substantial. Customers can trust that Vaisala's products represent leading edge technology.

The share of research and development expenses of the Group's net sales grew in 2009 by some 3 million euros. The increase was due to additional one-off investments aiming to align technology platforms and improve product modularity, usability and mass customization capability. In 2009 the research and development expenses were 28.4 (26.4/2008) million euros, 12.2 percent of the Group's net sales.

Altogether 22 percent of Vaisala's personnel work in Products and Technology unit with activities in Finland, the USA, the UK, and Germany.