Brother International 2012 Annual Report Download - page 11

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Special Feature
The Brother Group has formulated a mid- to long-term corporate vision—Global Vision
21—in which we define three objectives for the Group.
The Brother Group has been formulating mid-term business strategies as a roadmap for
achieving Global Vision 21, and the mid-term strategy “CS B2015” launched in April
2011 focuses on key growth strategies under the theme “Back to Growth.” Although we
have experienced many changes in our business environment since formulating this
mid-term strategy, our fundamental objective to capitalize on growth strategies and
expand our businesses remains unchanged. That is, we remain firmly committed to
achieving our vision for 2015 by responding to changes in our business environment,
actively pushing forward with capital investments, research and development, M&A,
and the strengthening of our sales structure, as well as expanding each of our
businesses, including new businesses.
Progress of Each Business in Fiscal 2011 and
Objectives for Fiscal 2012
Printing & Solutions Business (All-in-Ones, Printers, Electronic Stationery)
Promote growth strategies on a global basis,
and establish a leading position in each target area
The Printing & Solutions Business saw robust sales of laser printing equipment and
consumables for SOHO*1/SMB*2—one of our core strengths. Going forward, we plan to
launch a new high-end black-and-white laser printers and an inkjet model equipped with
high-speed line head, as we further strengthen sales aimed at customers in business
segments where high printing volume can be anticipated.
*1 SOHO: Small Office, Home Office *2 SMB: Small and Medium Business
Personal & Home Business (Home Sewing Machines)
Secure stable growth and profitability
The Personal & Home Business recorded robust performance thanks to the popularity
of mid- to high-end embroidery machines in North America. Going forward, we plan to
further expand sales of high demand mid- to high-end models while seeking to expand
business in emerging markets.
Machinery & Solution Business (Industrial Sewing Machines / Machine Tools)
Establish both growth and profits with a range of products that hold
the leading position in respective categories
We were able to secure an increase in machine tool sales for the year and record the
highest ever net sales for the business, despite falling below initial projections due to the
impact of monetary tightening measures initiated in China. In contrast, industrial sewing
machine net sales suffered from the economic slowdown, falling below initial projections.
In fiscal 2012, we will seek to develop new, more competitive products both the machine
tool and industrial sewing machine businesses as well as further strengthen our sales
structure in Asian markets where growth is expected.
Network & Contents Business (Online Karaoke / Contents Service)
Maximize profitability in online karaoke business
and nurture new businesses
The Network & Contents Business faced a challenging business environment in the
wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake. Nevertheless, we sought to achieve an
integration effect of the online karaoke business acquired through M&A. In fiscal 2012,
we plan to increase profits by bringing a new online karaoke machine model to market.
Network Imaging Device Business (New Business)
Nurture and establish new businesses for the next generation
In terms of new business, we will focus on the document application business, which
supports the digitization of documents and database creation, and the remote
collaboration business, which generates new value by combining network technologies
with competitive Brother products. These new businesses will be promptly established
and made commercially viable through proactive M&A and alliances.
Mid-Term Business Strategy “CS B2015” Enters Second Year
To become a leading global company with high profitability
To become a world-class manufacturer by developing
outstanding proprietary technologies
To embody Brother’s motto, “At your side,” throughout our
corporate culture
CS B2015 Theme –
Back to Growth
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2
3
Global
Vision 21