Kodak strengthens its place in Mideast

Gulf News: Please give an overall review of the year 2007, particularly with regard to regional success and Kodak's market share.

Khan: Kodak's digital business has performed exceptionally in the past year and is gaining momentum. The regular introduction of Kodak's new digital portfolio that ranges from digital cameras, digital frames, digital picture kiosks etc, has received high acceptance in the region. In the Middle East, our digital camera sales in 2007 grew by more than 60 per cent. Kodak EasyShare digital cameras are now amongst the top-selling cameras in most major ME markets. Also, the newly introduced Kodak Digital frame is the new must-have gadget and is a market leader.

Gulf News: How is the GCC market compared to other countries in terms of market growth and the challenges Kodak met in the region?

Khan: The GCC consumer is evolving fast and digital photography is being accepted with the sales of digital cameras ever increasing. Compared to mature digital markets like Western Europe and the US, the GCC is catching up but needs more time. The UAE leads in the conversion to digital imaging and is the first to adopt new technologies. Privacy of images is a serious concern in the region. Kodak respects this and offers solutions like home photo printers and picture kiosks.

Gulf News: What is Kodak's marketing strategy especially during big events like DSF, DSS, GITEX, etc?

Khan: We run aggressive value bundles on our entire digital camera range during the high season. Kodak cameras are the best-valued cameras when compared feature-to-feature with other brands. We ensure the consumer gets the best value deals in the market from a reputed and trusted brand in imaging.

Gulf News: Which countries in the region do you think have greater growth potential?

Khan: Although the entire GCC is experiencing a digital imaging boom, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have a better digital growth potential.

Gulf News: Where do you see the industry going?

Khan: Image capture will not be limited to camera devices but we see the emergence of highly advanced multi-functional devices. Sharing of images via WiFi and the internet will be as easy as ABC. Kodak's digital frames are already WiFi-enabled.