Gradipore names neighbour Minomic as distributor

Sydney-based Gradipore (ASX:GDP) has entered into a non-exclusive distribution agreement with Sydney-based proteomics specialists Minomic to distribute its Gradiflow BF400 bioseparation instrument nationally.

The agreement, according to Gradipore managing director Dr Hari Nair, is an important first step in increasing sales of the laboratory scale instrument through more effective targeting of potential markets. The company plans to enter other commercial arrangements to distribute the instrument in other target markets.

"As part of the company's 200-day strategic plan, we are committed to entering into new distribution agreements in order to increase sales of the BF400 instrument," he said in a statement.

The agreement has the potential to provide AUD$100,000 revenue to the company in the first year, after which terms for continuing the distribution agreement will be finalised.

The Gradiflow BF400 was initially launched early in 2003 targeting the monoclonal antibodies market, but a poor reception by the target market meant that the company decided to refocus their efforts on proteomics applications.

Nair noted that Minomic was well positioned to take advantage of opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as in Australia. Gradipore already has had an ongoing relationship with Minomic, as the company shares space in the Gradipore facility.

Minomic CEO Dr Brad Walsh said that Minomic was excited to be working with Gradipore. "It seems a very natural fit to us, as our core competency is in proteomics," he said. "The instrument is perfect for proteomics separations -- not many systems allow separation of proteins in their native state."

In addition to working on its own proteomics projects, Minomic has strategic alliances with a number of instrument companies including Perkin-Elmer and Waters, and provides training, support and contract research capabilities to the proteomics community in Australia.

Walsh said the company would be showcasing the Gradiflow BF400 at the upcoming proteomics and protein conferences in Lorne.