1999 Winner: Outstanding Commercial Achievement in Alberta Science and Technology (Sales less than 25 million)
Graphics Company Expands Across The Globe
EyeWire provides productivity-enhancing visual and audio content, online software tools, design sources and information for graphic designers and others looking to create professional-looking graphics. The company’s product offerings include stock photography, footage, audio, typefaces, illustrations and clip art through the Internet and through its award-winning catalog.
EyeWire began operations in 1985 as the industry’s first distributor of individual digital typefaces. The company was purchased by Adobe Systems Incorporated in 1994 and operated as the visual content division. In 1998, it was purchased by the division’s management team and in 1999 the company was acquired by Getty Images, Inc., a global provider of visual content.
International Markets
EyeWire has customers worldwide, ranging from small businesses, design studios and desktop publishers, to major corporations and multinational advertising and communications agencies. The company’s customers include ABC, The Gap, Procter & Gamble and Nike. The company’s dedication to quality and service has resulted in marked growth. The number of orders placed through EyeWire’s website has increased over 50% between September 1998 and June 1999. The world-class call centre handles thousands of calls every week. EyeWire employs over 90 people in its four offices in London, England; Dallas, Texas; Seattle, Washington, and its headquarters in Calgary, Alberta, an increase of over 35% since September 1998.
