Mobile entertainment company wins at business awards

Mobile entertainment company Apollo Entertainment Limited scooped two big awards at last week’s 2011 Westpac Auckland North Business Awards.

The Whangaparaoa-based business that specialises in 12 volt entertainment systems for motor homes, caravans, boats and super yachts won the Spyglass Excellence in Technology Award and the 3M Excellence in Innovation Award.

The judging panel heralded Apollo as a true success story that is showcasing New Zealand innovation internationally.

Owner Chris Hart believes a major part of his business is being at the forefront of technology, which is the key to its success, and recognises that for Apollo to be a market leader it needs to source new and innovative products.

The company currently supplies entertainment systems to the manufacturers of motor homes and retail outlets throughout New Zealand and Australia.

Apollo is the only company to produce a satellite dome with an in built GPS receiver and auto skew mechanism which gives an exceptional quality signal, allowing the user to enjoy Sky and Freeview in their recreational vehicle. It was also the first company to produce a 12 volt LED TV.

The company’s technology allows its TVs to run on less power, with the 19” model only drawing one amp per hour, allowing a longer viewing time.

Manager Business Development – North for Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, Ngaio Merrick, is impressed that Apollo is the only business to win two categories in this year’s competition.

“Innovation and technology are important components of long term business growth. Winning both these awards shows that Apollo not only understands the importance but embraces it as part of their culture. This is a great company that is going places,” says Ms Merrick.

The annual Westpac Auckland North Business Awards celebrates excellence in the local business community and honours successful companies across 12 awards categories.

Meet all the 2011 award winners