Optical components and assemblies maker Optics Balzers AG of Balzers, Liechtenstein, said it is continuing to expand its international sales network under a plan to reposition itself as one of the largest independent centers of competence for optical thin-film coatings in Europe. The company, officially founded two months ago (See Oerlikon Selling Optics Unit), has sales offices in Eschborn, Germany, and in Westminster, Colo., headed by Martin Nern and Steffen Capello, respectively. It also has five new distribution partners in the US, China and Italy. An additional expansion of the distribution network is being planned for Asia and Europe. Dirk von Frajer, head of the company’s global marketing and sales, said of the strategy, “Especially in economically tense times, our customers want to rely on capable partners who know their specific requirements, respond swiftly to their needs and offer them an excellent service at their local sites.”