SG Global recently launched Sharp, the well known Japanese electronics company, with a showroom at Naxal. Vice president Raju Bhetwal (Chettri) talked to Nepali Times about the consumer electronics brand and a foray into the Nepal market

Nepali Times: Sharp has been around for some time. Why is it being re-launched in Nepal?
Raju Bhetwal: Sharp was first introduced in Nepal 12 years ago. But the purchasing power of the consumers then was not very high and the brand could not be well established. However, the consumers are mature and brand conscious now. The timing is just right.

How is Sharp differentiating its products from the competition in what appears to be a very crowded market?
Sharp has always been a premium brand. The company was established almost 100 years ago, so consumers can trust its quality and durability. We target consumers who want to upgrade from their present appliances to a higher end model. Sharp is the pioneer of LCD technology and it has used its strength in new age television sets. Our showroom showcases a complete range of home appliances including small segment kitchen utilities.

How has the response been so far?
Despite not being located in a prime area like Darbar Marg or New Road, the showroom has been doing very well. The spacious showroom and availability of parking area may be a plus point for us. The inquiry has been five times our expectation. We are planning to expand to Pokhara, Narayanghat and Butwal. Sharp also manufactures solar systems and if there are incentives, we are interested to bring in these technologies.