Sharp set for bigger share in office automation systems

Sharp set for bigger share in office automation systems with merger of distributors, Al Ahlia and NGI

Al Ahlia Office Automation Division and New Generation Imaging (NGI), distributors of Sharp office automation products in Abu Dhabi and Dubai & Northern Emirates respectively, have merged to form a new entity under the name of New Smart Office Automation LLC.

The merger was announced at a joint press conference addressed by Gopal K. Pai, Managing Director of NGI, Naresh Jain, Group Business Development Manager, Al Ahlia Group and Tomio Isogai, SHARP MIDDLE EAST FZE Managing Director.

As a result of the merger, both companies will share their synergies and market experience to consolidate Sharp's office solutions all over the UAE.

"New Generation Imaging was established in 2005 to distribute Sharp MFP and Digital copiers and Printers in Dubai and Northern Emirates, and we have gained good market expertise in this industry in Middle East, Africa and Indian subcontinent," said Gopal K. Pai, Managing Director, NGI. "The establishment of this new company, New Smart, through a partnership between NGI and the Al Ahlia Group, represents a new bold step towards consolidating NGI's gains and expanding our reach beyond Dubai and Northern Emirates.

"New Smart has now over 25 technicians across UAE operating from three full fledged locations to ensure consistent and reliable service support to all Sharp customers. We are confident the combined experience of NGI and Al Ahlia will power NEW SMART to become a leading force in the Digital printing and reprographic industry within a short time," Pai added.

Naresh Jain, Group Business Development Manager, Al Ahlia Group, said: "Our business relationship with Sharp Corporation dates back to 1992. The foundation of Al Ahlia Office Automation Division was based on high standard of service and total solution for customer's Office Automation requirements. We are looking forward to a spectacular success of this joint venture by substantially improving the market share of SHARP Office Automation Products. The Joint Venture will result in better service to customers, focused marketing efforts and optimum utilization of resources."

Tomio Isogai said: "Sharp's vision is to be a total office solution provider. Sharp copiers, printers, MFPs and IDPs have acquired a significant loyal clientele over the past few years. With the merger of Al Ahlia and NGI, we have no doubt that Sharp sales will rise dramatically, as both have proved their credentials as aggressive distributors over the past few years. I welcome New Smart Office Automation as a new distributor combining the best qualities of two great dealers."
Al Ahlia Group has a business history dating back 28 years. It brought Coca Cola to the Middle East for the first time in 1986 after a gap of 30 years. The Group has also pioneered the concept of modern cafes way back in early eighties by starting ‘LA BRIOCHE'. It has entered into several joint ventures/technical assistance/business relationships with prestigious Multi-National Corporations like Halliburton, Sharp Corporation, Rolls Wood Group, Procor Sulphur Services Inc., and others.

NGI, the sole Sharp distributor in Dubai and Northern Emirates, has recorded dramatic growth over the past two years, as seen in Sharp's market share rising to double digits. Helped by a dedicated team of sales personnel and staff, NGI has bagged major corporate accounts its pioneering achievements include Arabised panels and ROHS certification.

Sharp Middle East has been aggressively marketing innovative office solutions and consumer electronics. Sharp business products are designed to boost productivity and reduce costs. Sharp products are designed to help individuals, families, and corporate teams connect effortlessly, communicate clearly, and unleash creativity like never before. Sharp is dedicated to improving people's lives through the use of advanced technology and a commitment to innovation, quality, value and design.