With demand on the rise for handheld computers in the logistics industry, Honeywell Scanning & Mobility’s Alaa Nawash provides a rundown on his company’s regional operations.
What range of handheld computers do you provide in the Middle East?
We provide the full range of Optimus and Dolphin handheld mobile computers from Honeywell Scanning & Mobility in the Middle East. Two of the leading companies in the automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) industry — Hand Held Products and Metrologic Instruments — recently combined to form Honeywell Scanning & Mobility. Together, we are pleased to deliver one of the broadest product lines in the industry, from entry level devices to industrial-grade mobile computers, designed to reduce costs and improve efficiency, resulting in an impressive return on investment.
How are your products differentiated from others in the market?
Our devices are rugged, so they can survive the harsh conditions often present in mobile and field applications. However, they are also designed to be very easy to use and ergonomic, and are recognized for their high performance and reliability.
How strong is demand for handheld computers in this region?
Despite the current economic situation, we still see a fair demand for mobile computers in the Middle East. There is growth, as most major companies are currently looking into acquiring mobile solutions for applications in the government, route accounting, logistics, field force automation and healthcare. The effect of the global crisis on the economy has been less severe here than in Europe or USA, and we still see projects and opportunities for solutions that can improve productivity and efficiency.
How competitive is the regional market?
Middle East is a high growth area which makes it interesting for many multinationals.
Which companies are using your products in this region?
We have major customers in the government area in different countries in the region, as well as major logistics and route accounting players.
What challenges have you faced in the Middle East?
The economic situation is of course a challenge, as well as the price sensitive market. We are also happy to take on the challenge of introducing new technologies into the market, and educating and supporting our customers regarding the latest developments, infrastructure requirements and the ROI opportunities that implementing our solutions can bring.
What are your market predictions for the future?
We expect healthy growth in the Middle East as many companies implement new technology and discover new applications using mobile computers. We see potential across several verticals, such as government, route accounting and retail. We are now also happy to have a local presence in the market, and this allows us to be closer to our partners and customers, and offer them the support they need locally.