Baggage high-flyer tips the scales

By ELLEN READ

Next time you check in your bags at an airport, take a close look at the weighing system.

The chances are high that it will be the work of a small Onehunga company - and not just if you're in a New Zealand airport.

Established in 1986 with just two staff members, the Atrax Group's weighing technology is now found in major airports in 45 countries.

The company provided 1000 baggage and cargo scales for Hong Kong's new international airport in 1998 and 170 scales are sitting in its factory awaiting shipment to the new Guangzhou airport in China's Guangdong province.

Jointly owned by managing director Kevin Maurice, a former electronics engineer with the Defence Department, and fellow director and investment banker John McDowell, the firm's first airport contract was to install two baggage systems at Auckland International Airport.

"People were sick to death of the old weighing systems breaking down," said Maurice. "Ours was fast and accurate."

From there, annual export sales of more than $5 million have built up.

To help provide inspiration, the company has a map showing where it weighs in around the world.

Countries pinned so far include the Ukraine, Georgia, Jordan, Myanmar, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Australia, Canada and the United States.

The firm's new system, the ABS 950, was developed last year with help of a Technology New Zealand grant.

It can be used as a fully integrated check-in system. For example, it can send diagnostic messages to the check-in operator and the baggage control room if there are problems within the conveyor system.

Atrax's technology range is not limited to airports.

Exports account for 70 per cent of business, but Atrax is now focusing on expanding its local business providing weighing and measuring systems.

Last week the company doubled its capabilities by moving to new premises in Onehunga, which were opened by Economic Development Minister Jim Anderton.