ELECTRICAL test instrument manufacturer Seaward Electronic Ltd is breaking into the US market with the opening of a sales office.

The Peterlee, east Durham, business has opened a sales, repair and calibration operation in Tampa Bay, Florida, which will spearhead plans to break into the growing North American market for electrical safety testing.

The Tampa Bay area has been highlighted as the US's fastest growing technology market location and Seaward has already appointed John Jansen as vice-president of its US operations.

Rod Taylor, managing director of the Seaward Group, said: "Seaward, and its sister company Clare Instruments, are both brand leaders in the respective markets in the UK.

"The focus for both companies is electrical safety testing and the combined product range will be unique in the US market, providing considerable market opportunities and the potential for growth."

The Seaward Group employs about 130 staff and has an annual turnover of £7m.

Seaward Electronic specialises in the manufacture of electrical instruments used to provide test and measurement solutions for electrical contractors and service engineers in line with health and safety legislation.