Set-top-box maker Pace will reap the benefits of the football World Cup being broadcast in HD and 3D, according to its chairman.

In an update at the Yorkshire-based digital TV technology manufacturer’s Annual General Meeting on 19 April, Mike McTighe said:

“The FIFA World Cup, which will be broadcast in HD and 3D formats, will result in first half performance being ahead of the second half as operators ship ahead of this major sporting event.  Overall the Group continues to look forward to another successful year and has maintained a strong balance sheet and robust financial position.”

McTighe revealed that trading for 2010 was in line with expectations with solid growth likely but slightly lower ASP.

Gross margins are also predicted to increase thanks to a focus on operating costs and efficiency.

In 2009 the company launched a Home Content Sharing product and bought Paris-based IP and cable gateways specialist Bewan.

It has also launched a second-generation set-top box for BT Vision and new Freeview HD products.

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