Acer takes market share from struggling competitors

In the UAE, Acer has continued to make gains, firmly establishing itself as the number two vendor of notebooks, with growth of 558.8 per cent from the third quarter of 2003 to the same period this year, according to international analysts IDC. The company has steadily been taking sales from HP and Fujitsu Siemens.

"Our strategy of supplying the most advanced technology at affordable prices is paying dividends," said Krishna Murthy, general manager, Acer Computer (M.E.) Ltd. "Consumers in Saudi Arabia clearly appreciate this approach, and are reassured by the stability of Acer and our strong relations with local Saudi distributors."

Acer sold 12,583 notebooks in Saudi Arabia during the third quarter of 2004, up from 2,735 in 2003, representing a 24.9 per cent market share. Growth in the UAE was even higher, with 15,376 units being sold this Q3, up from 2,334, a yearly rise of 558.8 per cent. Acer now accounts for 20.4 per cent of the UAE notebook market.

When desktops and notebooks PCs and servers are combined, Acer has 17.1 per cent market share in the Kingdom, with year-on-year growth of 152.6 per cent. In the UAE the company grew by 283.8 per cent in a year, accounting for 18.8 per cent of the market. In both territories, Acer is in a clear second position.

"In two of the region's key markets, Acer is increasing its market share every quarter at the expense of our competitors." added Murthy. "Our consistent effort in research and development has produced technology that is unique to this region, and also sensibly priced."

Acer's streamlined and flexible management policy means decisions are made quickly to satisfy market needs. Its indirect sales strategy, which it has adopted across the world, has made Acer one of the most reliable and coherent in the IT market.

Globally, Acer has achieved another high for consolidated revenues. Following its record results in September, the company has announced that October was the best month in its history, with consolidated revenues of US$ 709.63 million, up 42.5 per cent from the same month last year. During the first ten months of this year, Acer achieved a consolidated revenue growth of 42.5 per cent, equating to US$ 3.6 billion.

In the coming months, Acer will expand its product range further, with the introduction of digital cameras and LCD TVs to the Middle East.