Sharp makes entry into India mobile handset market

NEW DELHI: Electronics and appliances-maker Sharp Business Systems India today announced its entry into the mobile handset market with the launch of a range of phones targeted at trendy, yet price-conscious consumers.

"Sharp enjoys a high brand recall when it comes to business solutions. But this is the first time that we have decided to tap the huge growth potential of a consumer-driven segment," SBSIL General Manager (Marketing) Kishlay Ray said in a statement.

The handsets were designed with an eye on youth in the age group of 16-30 years in urban and semi-urban areas, he added.

The company said it will announce various promotional offers in the next six months for brand-building.

According to industry estimates, the mobile handset market in India grew by 4.2 per cent in terms of total revenue in 2009-10, compared to 7.9 per cent expansion in 2008-09.

Around 108 million mobile phones worth Rs 27,000 crore were sold in the country during 2009-10, up from Rs 25,910 crore in the previous year.

With the latest launch, Sharp will compete with a host of international and homegrown brands, such as Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, LG, Spice, Micromax, Videocon, Intex, T-Series, Zen, Karbonn and others.