Foxconn, a global manufacturer of IT motherboards, graphic cards, optical storage devices, workstations and server infrastructure, has embarked on a national campaign to extend its local reach.
Representatives suggest the efficiency of distribution partners, such as Sahara Computers, will directly influence the success of its strategy.
The global technology supplier is bullish about the plan it has in place to bolster its presence within the South African market and expand the reach of its brand.
This positive sentiment has been fuelled by statistics released recently by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) under Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs, which reports that Foxconn obtained the most number of patents in Taiwan in 2006.
The strategy that is already being initiated within the South African market takes into careful consideration the role of distributors.
"Distributors of Foxconn products offer a number of registered patents. They demonstrate commitment to Foxconn by providing innovation solutions and making sure all products perform at optimum levels. This protects the investment of the distributor and, in turn, makes business more stable and profitable in the channel," says Vadim Lisenko, marketing executive, Foxconn-EMEA.
Foxconn has an established long-term partnership with Sahara Computers. The alliance is based on the regular supply of processor and component infrastructure to meet a high demand from the local market.
"The local distribution channel will provide a sound platform through which Foxconn can reinforce its brand in South Africa. As a distribution partner Sahara Computers looks forward to assisting the company to raise its profile. We are committed to the company's strategy to ensure all channel participants are presented with solutions based on regional trends and local specific requirements," comments Gary Naidoo, deputy MD of Sahara Computers.
The objective is to ensure regular distribution to South African regions in accordance with a monthly schedule.
To date Foxconn has arranged a steady supply of motherboards, chassis and coolers to South Africa and also recently launched VGA supply, says Lisenko.
"In the event of a marked increase in demand, the supply schedule is flexible and can be amended to meet market requests. Foxconn has strong manufacturing facilities as well as strong logistics support from the United Arab Emirates, Europe and China. Therefore we can support any channel request with speed and efficiency. We can also arrange our pricing strategy to fit exact market frames in order to ensure consistent supply," he says.
Lisenko believes this approach, and the participation of distributors, will benefit those operating within the channel as well as end-users.
"The long term focus is to create a stable pool of products from customers with real satisfaction and convenience of use of Foxconn components and business for SA distributors. End-users can rest assured that they will be supported by a strong manufacturer operating within a stable distribution channel. Our partnership with Sahara Computers will add impetus to this campaign and we are pleased to have a credible, established and highly experienced distribution partner on board," he concludes.
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Established in 1997, Sahara Computers assembles and markets PCs and peripherals through a global distribution network that covers both established and emerging markets.
The company is an official distributor and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for a variety of top international vendors, including AMD, Creative, Delta, Epson, Foxconn, Intel, Lexmark, Maxtor, Microsoft, Samsung, SMC Networks and Symantec.
The core focus of Sahara's operation is the consistent and effective supply of affordable, reliable and accessible technology.
This operation is managed via the company's head office in Midrand, Gauteng - considered a central business hub. The Sahara business network stretches across South Africa to include Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth.
The company has successfully extended its reach to key regions and emerging global markets including Dubai, China and India. The Sahara brand is also well known across Africa, with established company presence in countries like Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique and Namibia.
Sahara's vision is to become a truly global brand and premier IT supplier throughout Africa.
Sahara is also an accredited member of the Proudly South African campaign as well as the SAVANT global SA brand awareness initiative. Corporate social responsibility is a key priority for the company and it continues to contribute towards projects and programs aimed at individual and community upliftment.
The name Sahara is widely associated with the development of sport, including soccer, cricket, rugby and motorsport. This is considered a significant area of business development by the company.
As a result of hard work, commitment and unwavering dedication to its brand, Sahara has formed several strong alliances with key role players, stakeholders and representative bodies.
Most recently Sahara announced the signing of a groundbreaking sponsorship and technology supply agreement with Mamelodi Sundowns, a top ranking soccer club competing in South Africa's Professional Soccer League.
The sponsorship is underpinned by the provision of communications infrastructure and mobile technology - including laptops, notebooks and digital lifestyle technology - and signals Sahara's commitment to the club and South African soccer in general.
Effective marketing and generating awareness are significant elements of the company's ongoing marketing campaign.
Under the direction of Gary Naidoo, appointed as Deputy Managing Director of Sahara in December 2005, the company retains a focus on a number of growing market sectors including corporate, government, digital lifestyle and mobile and wireless.
For more information on Sahara Computers, its products and services, visit www.sahara.co.za.
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