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CEA Announces Formation of New Wireless Communications Division at CES 2001

2001

Mentioned: John Shalam, Gary Shapiro

Summary

The Consumer Electronics Association announced the formation of a new Wireless Communications Division at the 2001 International CES in Las Vegas, citing rapid growth in the wireless sector. The division will focus on retail training, market research, promotional programs, and issue advocacy to support wireless industry members.

Sunday, January 7, 2001

CEA Announces the Formation of New Wireless Communications Division

New Division Reflects Growth Pattern of Industry

Las Vegas, Nev., January 7, 2000 - During a breakfast meeting today at the 2001 International CES - Your Source for Workstyle and Lifestyle Technology, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) announced the formation of the new Wireless Communications Division. The new Division was formed as a result of CEA's expanding membership base of companies in the wireless communications arena and a lack of existing industry programs to address the specific business needs of this rapid growth area of the consumer electronics industry. The Division's mission is to help grow the wireless sector through such efforts as retail training, specialized market and consumer research, promotional programs and issue advocacy. John Shalam, CEO of Audiovox Corporation, will represent the Wireless Communications Division on the CEA Board of Directors until a Division meeting can be held to name a chair.

"Wireless is one of the fastest growing areas of the consumer electronics industry as consumers continue to demand access to 'anytime/anywhere' information and entertainment," said CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro. "The formation of a Wireless Communications Division is reflective of the evolution of our industry. As an association, we must constantly ensure that we are serving our members needs and that our organization is structured to reflect and address changes in our industry. The Wireless Communications Division will provide a structure for developing the necessary programs to help this important sector grow and excel."

Several projects for the Division already have been proposed to support the sector, including: retail training for wireless sales personnel, the creation of an industry database of wireless retailers, development of wireless conference tracks and special events at the International CES as well as customized market research on wireless trends. The CEA Executive Board has approved the initial funding to launch the division as well as hire a new full-time staff person to service the division.