Loay International is possibly one of the largest computer systems companies in the country today. What do you think are the reasons for your growth?

Since inception, we have been always been customer centric and focused on bringing new technology and value for money products. The flexible management style and above all the commitment of our staff who have been around for a long time are a few reasons for our consistent growth.

Which are the key focus areas?

Government, corporate, SMEs, dealer channel, and retail have been our main focus areas. However, during the last four years our services sector has been growing at tremendous pace.

Apart from distributing school & office supplies,stationery, computer hardware and telecom products, any other areas you have made foray into?

Yes, services area we have tied up with other like minded professional companies to undertake major projects in the areas of help desk management, data quality management, etc.

Apple is relatively new brand that you distribute. What has been the experience?

Fortunately, the key area for Apple, the graphic design and publishing business has been booming as a result of which every company in the field of advertising and publishing has had to upgrade their systems and therefore we are the direct benefactors. Also, we are targeting the corporate segment with Apple ibooks and youth segment with Apple ipods. With Apple faring well worldwide, its been a smooth sailing for us too and there as been a spurt in sales of Apple products across all segments here in the Sultanate.

How would you characterize the market now? What do you think are the peculiarities of the Oman market?

The market has evolved over the years with the chain of hypermarkets, of late, becoming dominant players in retail trade. Also consolidation of major PC manufacturing companies has resulted in fewer brands being on the market. Our flagship brand Acer is now the world’s fourth largest PC brand and also one of the largest selling brands in Oman and the entire middle east. However, the biggest influence still happens to be the regional players doing business out of Dubai.

With the rise in petroleum prices do you see any change in your company’s fortunes?

Of course, the economy in general has been gathering momentum following the high oil prices, with every business faring well and the demand to employ new staff has resulted in more business volumes, especially for the hardware segment. Also major corporates have been replacing and upgrading their systems.

How is competition? How do you handle it?

Competition is absolutely severe in Oman and it keeps us on our toes every time. The dynamics of the industry is dictated by market forces and one has to be alert and vigilant to take quick decisions, in order to keep ahead of the pack.