Sharp to increase investment in Africa, others

Global electronics maker, Sharp, has concluded plans to significantly increase its investment and market presence in emerging markets.The company said in a statement on Monday that the new investment programme was specifically targeted at more than 80 countries in the Middle East, Africa and the CIS region.According to the company, the consumer technology market in the region is showing strong growth potential, with almost 30 per cent of the worlds population expected to be living in region by 2020.In view of this, demand for consumer goods that offer exceptional value and quality will increase and Sharp has appointed Mr. Hiroshi Sasaoka as the chairman of the region to support the new strategy with the best leadership talent within the company.Sasaoka will lead the operations from Sharp Middle Easts headquarters in Jebel Ali, with Dubai acting as the gateway to its business in the region.The new chairman brings with him extensive experience of spearheading expansions in the United Kingdom and Europe for Sharp Corporation, in addition to Middle East familiarity gained from the start of his time with the corporation where he was involved in the sales division for the MEA region.In his remarks, Sassaoka said, The Middle East, Africa and CIS consumer electronics market has significant market potential with attractive growth rates and consumer appetite for world class products. We believe this is an opportune time to expand and invest in the region with an increased product line up and a greater level of support.The year 2012 is our centenary, and after 100 years of innovation, we wish to start a new chapter by embarking on our next phase of growth by demonstrating our commitment to such a vibrant region. We have built a very strong operation in the region and we are now planning for aggressive growth.
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