Digital TV technology company Pace plc has seen confirmed as the world’s number two set-top box supplier to pay TV customers.

The Saltaire-based group, which was today expected to announce it broke through the £1 billion sales barrier in 2009, has been confirmed in second place by industry analysts, Screen Digest.

It marks a quick bounce back from near bankruptcy for the firm over the past three years.

Led by chief executive Neil Gaydon, Pace has delivered strong growth.

Mr Gaydon said: “We’ve experienced record growth in 2009 and we’re delighted to be recognised as the world’s number two set-top box company. What’s more important to us, however, is to be the best.

“No other manufacturer has the same breadth of product, engineering expertise and customer base. We intend to build upon our leadership position in 2010 and beyond by developing ever-more innovative products, deepening our existing customer relationships and pursuing opportunities in current and new territories.”

The group, whose international base is in Salts Mill, employs around 1,000 people globally, including more than 400 staff at Saltaire.