US Market Update: Schneider Electric

Mexico is a dynamic market where solution providers really need to differentiate themselves. For example, while retail is a relatively conservative and cost-conscious vertical worldwide, the Oxxo and 7-Eleven chains here have readily adopted our cost-effective, 4-channel solution in hundreds of stores and are looking to expand the project to thousands of stores nationwide. So, there are plenty of customers in Mexico looking for premium products, solutions and services; you just need to set yourself apart and go the extra mile to stand out.

※Alejandro Rodríguez, Partners Sales Manager for Buildings Business

The effects of the 2009 recession have subsided significantly; we felt the three-week swine flu shutdown last year was even scarier. This year so far, we are expecting at least 20-percent growth, given the strong rebound in the first quarter. New government buildings and strong investments in oil/gas and industrial facilities are helping strengthen our role as a security consultant and strategic business partners. The expertise that we provide gives added value to
end users as they look for ways to better use energy and improve productivity and processes. We are now a one-window provider that offers fully integrated building solutions, delivers quality, and grows with customers constantly.

Our key challenge now is to open our potential customers' eyes and help them understand the full power of integrated solutions, with the technologies, sales support and training tools that we have at our disposal. Mexico follows many of US trends, so our efforts there can be quickly replicated here. One of the five design centers Schneider has worldwide is also here in Mexico, focusing on software development. Another challenge would be having proper regulations and government incentives to accompany the ever-growing number of intelligent, green infrastructure projects.