Lenovo takes on New Zealand consumer market, Harri at the helm

Lenovo has confirmed its entry into the New Zealand consumer market, launching its first consumer range via Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi and Noel Leeming.

The move was tipped by TechDay last week, following the appointment of former Synnex New Zealand boss Richard Harri as Lenovo retail channel manager.

Harri has been charged with growing the company's retail presence in New Zealand, with Lenovo likely looking to equal or better the results seen in Australia where six months after launching their consumer/retail offerings, Lenovo has taken 12% market share.

Matt Codrington, Lenovo Australia and New Zealand managing director, has been vocal in the past about wanting to see the vendor's retail/consumer business strengthened in New Zealand.

Today's announcement  sees a 'broad range' of Lenovo consumer computing products being made available to New Zealand consumers, as the world's largest PC manufacturer seeks to establish its presence in the New Zealand consumer technology landscape.

The consumer line-up will be led by the flagship Yoga 2-in-1 convertible PC and tablet range, and the newly launched Z-series notebooks.

A range of consumer notebooks, tablets and all-in-one devices, including the A-series 27-inch AIO, will also be launched here.

Brendan Lau, Lenovo Australia and New Zealand consumer director, says the company is delighted to finally have its consumer product range in the New Zealand market.

"New Zealand is a key growth market for Lenovo," Lau says.

"We recognise that there is local demand for more choice when it comes to consume technology and we are committed to providing New Zealand consumers with a broad range of quality computing devices.

Meanwhile, Harri says buyers of personal technology value the interactive experience that comes from walking into a retail store and speaking with sales assistants face-to-face.

"That is why we are investing in this retail strategy and providing consumers with the best shopping experience through our three trusted retail partners.