Gree aims to diversify for growth

Air conditioner maker broadens its product range to smartphones and new-energy vehicles


Gree Electric Appliances Inc, one of China's major air conditioner makers, has developed an ambitious plan to diversify its business to sustain its market growth in the near future, according to its president.


Dong Mingzhu, Gree's president, said the company's business will range from its backbone air conditioners and white goods to smartphones, new-energy vehicles and intelligent equipment.


"The diversified businesses are based on Gree's already-developed core technologies, especially in the smart electronic areas," said Dong.


Dong made the remarks during a seminar featuring China's manufacturing industry, over the weekend in Beijing.


"Only if China's manufacturing industry is integrated with smart technologies and focuses on quality will it succeed in the global market in the near future," Dong said.


Citing the company's newly launched second generation of smartphones, Dong said Gree will attach the utmost importance to quality and technology when developing new products.


"In addition to the introduction of a series of high-tech components, the phones will allow customers to control wirelessly connected household appliances, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, helping make their lives more convenient," she added.


Gree launched its second generation of smartphones in June, after a nearly one-year trial operation of its first batch, which were only sold to employees for testing purposes.


The article transsshipment from China Daily