CORPORATE INTELLIGENCE AFRICA ISSUE 0024 | Page 25

and touch points are an integral part of our Africa expansion strategy,” said managing director, Panasonic marketing Middle East and Africa Masao Motoki during the opening ceremony. “We are positive that with our broad product category and high quality products, we will be gaining a strong foothold gradually across the continent,” said Mr Motoki. To ensure an outstanding operation Panasonic has incorporated Pole Stars as its key partner in the Kenyan market and the latter will be providing the after sales service to the customers. Pole Stars is a company working in electrical equipment and supplies, electrical goods and general shopping business activities Bhop Indar Singh, managing director Pole Stars, said they are content with the partnership and promised customers the best service delivery with a touch of the latest technology. “With its extensive line-up and quality products deemed to meet varied customer demands, this showroom will not only help Panasonic gain a strong foothold in the growing Kenyan market but also makes for a strategic brand association for us,” noted Mr Singh. Mr Motoki said they settled on Pole Stars as the regional partner after noting that it understands better the demands of the local market. Analysts further point out that the opening of Panasonic’s Nairobi showroom will also open up the market for much needed competition to other firms and manufacturers that have previously dominated the region. Other electronic companies in the local presence in the market are Phillips and Samsung.

Panasonic stirs up competition as it opens showroom in Nairobi
By Jared Opiyo

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lobal electronic products manufacturer Panasonic Corporation has moved to strengthen its presence in Africa after it opened an integrated showroom in Nairobi The showroom will offer on-ground sales and after-sales service to customers. The showroom is labeled as the first fully equipped and comprehensive showroom by Panasonic with a complete range of audio visual products and accessories, entire range of home appliances as well as the inspirational range of beauty products. Panasonic adds to the growing list of companies rushing to Kenya which is so far considered to be the most strategic launching pad in fighting for the African Market. Panasonic Corporation group of companies is a globally recognised manufacturer of electric and electronic products that range from electronic components to

consumer electronic products, home appliances, factory automation equipment, information and communications equipment and household products. Analysts have pointed out that the opening of Panasonic Plaza in Kenya stands as a clear indicator that foreign investors are riding on a renewed interest towards Kenya’s economy. The company had previously used distributors to sell its products across the East African region but now seems focused on increasing its footprints across Africa with customers in ensuring that customers have direct access to its products and services. “Making inroads into Africa and establishing a strong presence by enhancing customer preferences

(From left to right) Mr. Manish Sharma - MD Panasonic India, Mr. Varun Dhawan - Brand Ambassador, Panasonic Smartphone, Mr. Daizo Ito, President Panasonic India, Mr. Pardeep Jaina, MD Jaina Group.

“We are positive that with our broad product category and high quality products, we will be gaining a strong foothold gradually across the continent.

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