Diagnostic Ultrasound launches Japanese unit

Diagnostic Ultrasound of Redmond, WA, has established a subsidiary in Japan. Touchmetrics opened Jan. 1, and will support Diagnostic Ultrasound’s 3-D ultrasound products. The new company replaces Sumitomo, Diagnostic Ultrasound’s former representative in Japan, although Sumitomo will continue as a nonexclusive distributor of Diagnostic Ultrasound’s products. Touchmetrics’ president is Seijiro Shirahama, formerly general manager of Bristol Meyers Squibb’s Convatech division.

Establishing Touchmetrics is part of Diagnostic Ultrasound’s effort to strengthen its global position: The company has a European subsidiary, DxU Europe, and distributor agreements in 50 countries around the world. Diagnostic Ultrasound reported annual sales of $17 million in 1999, and has 130 employees.