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Sahara, Despec in consumables JV

Johannesburg, 19 Sep 2002

In a move that extends its operations to include a focused imaging and consumables division, the Sahara Group has establish a joint venture with global IT consumables specialist distributor, Despec. Having previously serviced such needs through Sahara Computers, the group feels the time is right to create a focused division that will cater exclusively to the imaging and printing requirements of its client base.

Already holding exclusive distribution agreements with Lexmark and Epson, Sahara Consumables will kick off with the sale of consumer-based products and grow the offering over time.

"We believe that the combined expertise of Sahara and Despec provides a solid foundation upon which Sahara Consumables can grow into a major reseller of branded IT consumable products in the region," comments Greg Mommsen, Sahara Consumables and Group GM. "A consumables division is a natural progression for Sahara, especially given the group's success in the PC and component market."

Mommsen adds that Sahara felt the time was right to offer additional product lines to its customer base. "Previously we carried limited peripheral products and we recognised the opportunity in the market to fulfil a legitimate channel demand, while leveraging off our existing channel infrastructure."

With Sahara Computers' primary focus on the import and wholesale distribution of the SAHARA PC, components and peripherals, Mommsen says the need for a focused consumables division, was obvious. "As our imaging business grew we realised the need for more concentrated effort in this arena, however, we did not want to diversify Sahara Computers' focus - so a separate division was the best option."

Sahara Consumables currently offer scanners, digital projectors and printers, as well as ribbon, ink and toner cartridges but will extend its offering at a later stage. It will initially carry entry-level, SOHO and SME products, but aims to scale that to address corporate needs at a later stage. "It is our aim to offer advanced printing solutions in the long run, allowing our resellers to cater for home and corporate users alike," comments Mommsen.

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Editorial contacts

Brian Bakker
PR Connections
(011) 885 3141
sahara@pr.co.za