Price cuts keep EMEA PC market afloat - but only just, IDC says (page 2 of 2)

An improved distribution channel strategy in the SMB market, good product and price positioning, and continued focus in the mobile computing space contributed to the vendor's performance in the region. Acer again recorded the strongest performance in EMEA with over 27% growth, and took the fourth position in the overall ranking, outpacing IBM, and the number two position in the notebook space. Continuing to display an aggressive strategy in the notebook market (with notebooks representing more than 50% of the vendor's shipments), low pricing, and an extended distribution network, Acer is consolidating its positions across Europe, clearly challenging the leaders in the market.

IBM recorded sustained performance overall, despite the absence of the vendor from the consumer market and the weakness of corporate demand. Although facing fierce competition in the SMB market, IBM continues to hold well thanks to increased competitiveness.

Toshiba continues to hold well against competition in the notebook space, although growth was moderate at the European level. An outstanding performance in the UK, where the vendor recorded over 37% growth, clearly contributed to the vendor's sustained results in the region.

Sony recorded strong performance with over 50% growth compared with last year. While facing intense competition in the consumer notebook space which led to a softer double-digit growth in this segment, continued success of its desktop product line assisted the vendor's overall performance. NEC CI displayed a soft performance overall; however, the vendor maintained a strong position in the consumer market thanks to attractive product and price positioning across both desktops and notebooks. Apple recorded healthier trends in its first fiscal quarter, driven by strong consumer sales across both its desktop and notebook product lines.