European computer executives gearing up for growth in 1995
Article Abstract:
Experts say the European computer industry is poised for growth in 1995 after companies such as DEC, IBM and Ing C. Olivetti posted combined losses of nearly $5 billion between 1992 and 1994. DEC recently opened a PC factory in Scotland, which is capable of producing nearly 1 million PCs per year. ICL PLC, the British affiliate of Fujitsu Ltd, is ready to unveil a new strategy to enhance its PC sales by 30% in 1995. The industry's optimism is centered around Germany's economic recovery and northern Europe's economic upswing. A market research study indicates computer hardware, software and service markets in Europe grew 7.4%, to $41.9 billion in the 4th qtr of 1994. This is a vast improvement over the 4.5% to 4.8% rate from earlier in the year. The survey also indicates 1995 will show further improvements based on a 9.9% 1st qtr growth rate and a 7.3% 2nd qtr rise.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1995
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Vobis attempts to re-enter British PC arena; venture with PowerStore could signal beginning of further price wars
Article Abstract:
Germany's largest PC maker, Vobis Microcomputer, is participating in a sales joint venture with British retailer PowerStore Trading. The venture represents Vobis' second attempt to enter the fierce British personal computer market. The company's first attempt, partnered with Dixons Group, captured a meager 1% of the UK PC market. The German company will control the Vobis-PowerStore venture that will locate Vobis PC departments inside 88 PowerStore locations. Vobis expects to reap greater profits and provide more exposure for the Vobis brand name. Margins in the British PC market are so slim that most profits are made when customers purchase software and additional componentry. However, the venture may spark a new round of cost-cutting as Vobis-PowerStore competes with Escom and other retailers for market share.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1995
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Net at Computer Associates rose 25% in 2nd period. Computer Associates is comfortable with analysts' estimates for quarter
- Abstracts: Duty on screens could lift price of U.S. laptops. Order from chaos; computer industry divides into camps of winners and losers; balance of power is tilted by steady price declines and linking of machines; U.S. competitiveness grows
- Abstracts: FCC orders consumer education plan by AT&T for its new calling card
- Abstracts: AT&T, NCR may combine computer lines; firms are said to be in talks that may end in spinoff or an acquisition offer
- Abstracts: MCI and Sprint pitch 800 service to households. MCI unveils plan to give small business long-distance service used by big firms