COTTAGE GROVE, WI -- Matrix Fitness Systems’ 2008 U.S. sales increased by 25.7 percent over the corresponding 2007 period, according to Johnson Health Tech North America Corp. Globally, sales grew 25.1 percent over the prior year. The private company would not disclose its net income, nor would it disclose actual dollar figures for sales.

Although the company saw growth in 2008 sales, it was slower growth than Matrix had seen in the previous three years, which all had triple digit percentage growth in U.S. sales. In 2007, the company’s domestic sales had increased 102 percent over 2006. Global sales in 2007 had grown by 58 percent over 2006.

Still, considering the economy, the company’s sales growth was notable.

“Much of our domestic growth can be attributed to increased market penetration and our commitment to customer service,” Chris Clawson, Johnson Health Tech North America Corp. president and CEO, said in a release from the company. Matrix is the commercial brand of fitness equipment under Johnson Health Tech North America. “In 2008, we aggressively invested in our marketing efforts and in new product development. The increased marketing and launch of new products has enabled our sales team and distribution partners to further develop our commercial base of clients over the last 12 months.”

The company released 17 new products in 2008, including three treadmill models, a functional trainer and two indoor bikes. The company’s marketing efforts included participation in 35 trade shows in North America. Matrix also increased sponsorships, advertising frequency and number of publications, public relations and strategic partnerships in technology, brand and education.

Clawson also said that the company’s global growth shows that Matrix’s commercial sales and operations teams throughout Asia, Europe, North America and South America continue to successfully gain market share, and he expects the company’s sales to continue growing.

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