VISCOM AV

Audio Visual and Video Conferencing Systems

January 2010

Sony is withdrawing completely from the videoconferencing market in EMEA.

Sony's only comment on the move was: 'In the past months, we have been operating in an unprecedented economic recession in Europe which is putting increasing pressure on business across the entire EMEA zone. In light of this ongoing economic situation, Sony PSE has decided to discontinue its videoconferencing business in EMEA with effect from 31 March 2010.'

Although the withdrawal has been rumoured for months the timing of the move has surprised industry observers, and left dealers angry at the lack of communication. Wainhouse Research has dubbed the decision 'incredibly naive and a backwards marketing move'. Sony pulled out of the North American market in 2007, leaving Asia-Pacific as its only region trading in vcon.