Affordability and accessibility are key factors within ICT retail today. Operators have been quick to pounce on opportunities within the mobile and wireless space, especially technology that influences or enhances lifestyle and personal living.
According to Atul Gupta, MD of Sahara Computers, the high-rate of adoption of digital lifestyle product is helping to entrench the local lifestyle market, a trend that is likely to continue.
"The South African consumer is more aware of what technology can offer, what features are available and why these are sought-after. He or she is out there searching for devices or gadgets that enable and enhance the mobile environment. Retailers operating within the ICT arena are aware of this and there is a healthy level of competition and choice that now exists. Digital lifestyle product, including home entertainment systems and LAN infrastructure in the home, is a reality and in demand," explains Gupta.
Sahara plans to capture a greater percentage of this market share. To increase its influence and presence, the company has ensured that its product offering includes gadgets, multimedia devices, hi-tech audio and visual equipment and PC infrastructure specifically built to accommodate the requirements of gaming enthusiasts and other users that rely on power performance.
"The demand for more power in digital product and PC infrastructure in the home has definitely increased. The European and US digital lifestyle product market has experienced significant growth in the past year. We are confident that a similar trend will emerge within the local market. It helps to have something new to offer people - for example, we recently introduced a five-in-one memory stick that has built-in functionality to serve as a digital audio and visual recorder with playback ability, as well as a digital camera. We believe this type of multifunctional device - and others like it - will remain popular and drive the market," says Gupta.
A competitive price for the consumer is one of the main reasons for the increased popularity of multifunctional devices and applications.
Gupta concludes: "The end-user gains the benefit of robust mobile and wireless devices and gadgets with effective technology at a reasonable rate. This appeals to most segments especially the SOHO market and small to medium-sized organisations. Retailers will have to appreciate the requirements of the modern-day communicator and adapt accordingly. Not only will selection and price be key considerations, but pre-sale and after-sale service and support will also remain crucial factors. Technology should be an enabler and people like to feel empowered and achieve instant gratification by having connectivity and access anytime, anywhere."
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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 based in Midrand and is the official distributor and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for a variety of top international vendors, including: AMD, Creative, Delta, Epson, Intel, Lexmark, Maxtor, Microsoft, MSI, Samsung, SMC Networks and Symantec.
An accredited member of the Proudly South African campaign and SAVANT international brand awareness initiative, the Sahara business network stretches across SA to include Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth. The company has established presence in key African countries like Kenya and Botswana, and is focused on an aggressive strategy to expand into this growing market.
For more information on Sahara Computers, its products and services, visit www.sahara.co.za.
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