A distribution agreement established between technology solutions vendor, Samsung, and local ICT and digital lifestyle technology supplier, Sahara Computers, has led to the introduction of a range of products targeted at the local optical drive markets.
This industry alliance, forged in 2002, initially focused on extending presence within and providing solutions for the optical drive market.
The end result is that the consumer now enjoys a wider choice of digital lifestyle solutions and consumer electronics, including CD, DVD-writers and printers.
The latest Samsung solutions to be made available include: the SATA DVD writer SH-S183A and SH-S183L, 18x Super-WriteMaster, as well as the Slot-in Slim SE-T084L External DVD-writer.
One of the key driving forces behind the release of new products and the strengthening of commercial ties between the two companies is that of affordability in multifunctional digital technology.
"Products are generally more affordable and this means that DVD writers are becoming the optical disc drive of choice. A competitive pricing structure supports consumers in their quest for a viable option as they upgrade from CD-ROMs, CD writers and combo drives," explains Gary Naidoo, deputy MD of Sahara.
The alliance also helps position the companies at the forefront of emerging trends within this competitive space, not least of which is the global launch of Blu-ray DVD technology.
"Samsung enjoys the top market share for optical drives in South Africa. The company recently became the first supplier of 18x speed DVD writers to the local hardware market. The next step will be Blu-ray DVD technology which, at its current technology level, enables up to 25Gb (and 50Gb on dual layer) to be burnt to a disc as against the current regular 4.7Gb (8.5Gb on a dual layer)," explains Naidoo.
"While the pricing at this stage is not at the general consume level to make an impact on the commercial market, the partnership with Samsung will certainly help generate further opportunity for trade and additional business when the products are introduced."
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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 programmes 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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