Hisense Committed to Introducing more State-of-the-Art Technology to the region!

Smart home technology is experiencing rapid growth in the region, and Hisense is at the forefront of introducing innovative and state-of-the-art products to meet the increasing demand.

In an exclusive interview, the editor of VAR had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Fazalur Rahman, Marketing Director at Hisense Middle East & Africa, to gain insights into how the brand has successfully secured a substantial market share and what continues to drive their enthusiasm for the future.

Could you please tell us about your role in the organization and your areas of expertise?

I am the Regional Marketing Director for Hisense Middle East & North Africa, responsible for designing and reshaping strategies to improve brand awareness and equity, execute GTM plans, enhance consumer engagement, and optimise retail/shopper marketing. My primary focus in this role is on driving brand equity, influencing consumer behaviour, and accelerating business growth across the Middle East region. I have been with Hisense for over 7 years since its nascent years in the region, spearheading a small team with a strategic approach to enter and expand into the UAE, GCC & LEVANT regions.

What is Hisense’s most recent offering to the Middle Eastern market?

Well, Hisense has recently launched its next generation of 2023 TV line-up. Our hero product focuses on ULED X technology which has even better picture quality based on Mini LED Technology though the usage of advanced in house developed chipset called Hi-View Engine X. The technology can be seen in the model 85UX which will be available in the market in Q3 2023. The ULED X, which was initially unveiled at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, received the CES 2023 Innovation Award for its advanced optical systems, exceptional image processing, and industry leading display technologies. We also introduced ULED TVs, range of Mini-LEDs, Laser TV as well as smart projectors like PX1-PRO, CH1 and PL1H.

We are committed to introducing more cutting-edge and latest technology products to the region. Our technology is a combination of smart and high-end tech algorithm that makes consumers connect with these appliances for an easier lifestyle. The smart features can be witnessed in our appliances like refrigerators, that comes with a touch screen, allowing you to control temperature and other features. Soon the market will witness a range of smart series with washing machines, dishwashers and air conditioners.

What are some significant trends and requirements that have emerged from the Middle Eastern market throughout the years?

The household appliances market in the Middle East has witnessed significant growth in the past few years because of several positive factors. One notable trend driving this growth is the integration of smart home technology, which has contributed to the industry’s expansion in the region. Additionally, there has been a rising demand for energy-efficient appliances, primarily due to growing environmental awareness and the need to reduce energy consumption. As a result, companies have begun investing in the development of energy-efficient appliances to meet this demand.

The growth of e-commerce in the Middle East has played a crucial role in propelling the household appliances market. The household appliances market is expected to see a substantial increase in the coming years. This growth can be attributed to the exposure of Middle East to other countries. Increase of tourism has which has generated increased demand in household appliances in resorts and hotels. Many people are migration to the Middle East, which is driving market development; and the growing number of working family members and time constraints fuelling demands for modern equipment. The deployment of smart household appliances is also seen as a time-saving solution in this context.

Could you give us some statistics on your market share in the Middle East and your projected growth in the next two years?

Hisense has experienced remarkable growth in the Middle East over the past 10 years. Through a carefully planned approach and effective expansion strategies, the brand has managed to capture a significant market share of 12 per cent in the region’s TV sector and aiming to reach 18-20 per cent in the next two years. This achievement is testament to our commitment to delivering quality products and establishing a strong brand presence in the region.

As a brand, we are constantly striving to further enhance our presence in the Middle East. The company is actively investing in the development and introduction of new technologies, ensuring that our product line-up remains at the forefront of innovation. By introducing more stock-keeping units, Hisense aims to provide a diverse range of options to cater to the varying needs and preferences of its customers.

In addition to product development, Hisense is also prioritising its visibility on both offline and online platforms. Recognising the importance of a multi-channel approach, we are focusing on strengthening our presence in traditional bricks-and-mortar stores, while also expanding our reach through online retail platforms. This comprehensive strategy aims to make Hisense products more accessible to consumers across different touchpoints, further fuelling the brand’s growth in the Middle East.

What projections do you have for the TV market? Do you think TV costs will rise in the future?

Hisense is a competitive brand, and we are focused on growth. By participating in global events such as the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championships, we have gained a better platform to communicate with end-users, leading to an expansion of our brand and increased credibility and acceptability. In the TV category, we will continue to introduce advanced technology and features that cater to our end-users, offering the best home entertainment solutions.

Our recent launch of ULED X technology is certain to captivate consumers with its premium picture quality. Technology remains a key factor in the TV industry, and we anticipate the introduction of game-changing entertainment solutions on to the market very soon. It is important to note that advanced technology often comes with a higher price point. While there has been a month-on-month increase observed in the market, we recognise the high level of competitiveness.

Finally, what excites you about technology’s future?

At Hisense, we are always striving to keep pace with the latest trends and stay ahead of our competitors in introducing trendy products. We are particularly excited about the future of technology in the TV industry. For example, we recently unveiled the Hisense PX1-PRO TriChroma Laser Cinema at CES, receiving widespread acclaim. This next-generation TV offers immersive entertainment and is now available across the Middle East region. As technology continues to advance rapidly, we are equally excited to see what the future holds and to be part of this transformative journey.