Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Limited (FPH) is a manufacturer, designer and marketer of products and systems for use in respiratory care, acute care, and the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Based in New Zealand, their products and systems are sold in around 120 countries worldwide. FPH is primarily an exporting company, with just 1 percent of revenue coming from New Zealand sales.[2]
History
Fisher & Paykel began in 1934 as an importer of refrigerators, washing machines and radios. In 1938, F&P signed an agreement with Kelvinator and in the mid-1950s moved to manufacturing products using the company's own technology.
The involvement in healthcare started in the late 1960s when F&P sought involvement in a business that could benefit from their growing manufacturing and electronic expertise. A prototype respiratory humidifier, developed in New Zealand for use with patients being ventilated in hospital intensive care situations, was taken to the production stage by F&P. Continuing product innovation to improve patient care and development of a world-wide distribution network are two core strengths.[3]
The company was separated and was also listed on the stock exchange on 14 November 2001. As part of a reorganization, Fisher & Paykel Industries Limited was renamed Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Limited and a new company, Fisher & Paykel Appliances