Technology Business of the YearBack to Winners

Sponsored by Cripps & University of Kent

Clevertouch

Clevertouch was the world’s first large format interactive display screen. The manufacturing element of Sahara Presentations Systems, it is now the leading interactive touch screen in UK schools and supplies technology to Europe, North America and the Middle East.

Since its launch in 2009, Clevertouch now has 23% of the market share and 80 employees. The business is continuously developing its innovative products, with manufacturing having moved to China a few years ago to access specialist clean room facilities required to build advanced interactive screens. Fault rates are under 1%, making it the most reliable touch screen on the market.

A family-run company helmed by two brothers, Clevertouch does not have the pressure of pleasing shareholders, and so the directors are able to base their decisions on the long-term future, not shortterm gains.

Staff are trained to the highest standards, with the company recruiting from within when possible. It also has a fully-paid three-day conference every year to get to know its partner network.

A new state-of-the-art distribution facility in Dartford, which can hold up to 15,000 items worth £22m is enabling the business to increase operations and guarantee same day delivery on orders within the UK.

The company also emphasises the importance of listening to the consumer. Brand marketing manager, Adam Kingshott, said: “It’s a strange thing but many top-heavy management structures do not trust their users to know what their want. Clevertouch is the complete reverse of this – actively asking, listening and incorporating customer requests into product developments.”