In the ever-evolving and competitive landscape of high-performance televisions, SHARP has reemerged as a force to be reckoned with. After a period of strategic transformation and development, the company is now ready to make a significant impact in the television market once again, and independent retailers are taking note. With the imminent release of their new line of Aquos XLED TVs, SHARP is poised to capture the attention of both consumers and retailers alike. TWICE recently caught up with Jim Sanduski, President of SHARP Home Electronics Company of America, and Peter Weedfald, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing of SHARP Home Appliances & TV Consumer Electronics, to find out more about the new TV lineup.
When it comes to catering to the desires of discerning customers, SHARP understands that offering choice and quality is paramount. “Retailers and consumers and people in the industry are excited because they like the fact that we’re [SHARP] offering more than one room at the house,” said Weedfald. “I think the world lives on choice…by introducing the SHARP Aquos, it gives more propensity in any retail shop for someone to make a decision.”
SHARP’s latest TV offerings reflect this philosophy of choice, designed to provide an array of options that cater to a diverse range of preferences. From mainstream LCD televisions to cutting-edge OLED technology, SHARP’s new TV lineup is set to make a strong impact in the market.
One of the standout offerings in SHARP’s arsenal is the Aquos XLED series, positioned as a tier-one premier product and available in August 2023. With models available in 65 and 75 inches, the Aquos XLED series combines the best parts of LCD and OLED TV, and promises an exceptional viewing experience, boasting over 2100 dimming zones for unparalleled contrast and vibrancy. Backed by a color gamut of approximately 88%, the Aquos XLED series brings movies and shows to life in stunning detail.
Another premium feature that sets SHARP’s Aquos XLED series apart is its innovative ARSS+ surround speaker system sound technology. With a remarkable 11 speakers, including a subwoofer, mid-range speakers, and tweeters, this TV offers an immersive sound experience that goes beyond traditional surround sound and removes the need for a soundbar. “We don’t even actually call it surround sound,” quipped Weedfald in our interview, “we call it ‘round sound’.” This innovation showcases SHARP’s commitment to delivering not only exceptional visuals but also outstanding audio quality, ensuring that viewers are fully immersed in their entertainment.
SHARP’s return to the television market has been met with enthusiasm from both consumers and independent retailers. The company’s focus on providing high-quality products with sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology aligns well with the preferences of customers seeking value and performance. For independent retailers, SHARP’s reentry into the TV market brings an exciting opportunity to offer their customers a brand that is well-regarded and trusted.
“We’re [SHARP] using our own panels, we’re using our own technology, and we’ll be the industry’s first Roku TV OS in OLED technology,” Sanduski revealed to TWICE. “We’re partnering with – depending on the series of product – both Roku and Android or Google TV for the television operating system.”
Furthermore, SHARP’s commitment to smart, disciplined channel distribution ensures that the brand retains its value while offering competitive pricing. This approach safeguards against the potential devaluation that can arise from steep price cuts in the market, allowing both retailers and consumers to enjoy the benefits of SHARP’s products without compromise.
“Brands don’t make products, products make brands,” added Weedfald. “It’s not about focusing on quantity or market share but focusing on how we can properly relaunch the SHARP brand in the television category into the United States market.”
As SHARP sets its sights on becoming a tier-one player in both the built-in kitchen appliance and TV markets, the brand’s trajectory is clear. By combining its heritage in the appliance industry with its renewed focus on television technology, SHARP has positioned itself as a multifaceted player that caters to various aspects of modern living. The synergy between their high-quality appliances and state-of-the-art TVs provides consumers with a seamless, innovative, and truly exceptional living experience.
With its impressive lineup of TV offerings, including the Aquos XLED series, SHARP is poised to capture the attention of consumers who seek a combination of performance, design, and innovation. As the brand continues to roll out its products as a tier-one player, independent retailers have a unique opportunity to leverage SHARP’s strong reputation and deliver products that resonate with their customers’ desires for quality, choice, and exceptional living.
Learn more about the SHARP Aquos XLED lineup at global.sharp/aquos/en
