APC 1999 Annual Report Download - page 5

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Concerning growth, you talk about
“pushing back our borders.”
What are these borders?
First, our geographic borders. In some countries, our market share still has
high growth potential, which we need to exploit.The second border
concerns our lineup—our specialties.With the acquisitions already com-
pleted and those to come in other areas related to our core businesses,
we’re enhancing and broadening the Schneider Electric family of products
and services.We must also explore the potential created by new information
and communication technologies in smart buildings and homes and latest-
generation automated factories. Meanwhile, the deregulation of electricity
markets is opening opportunities all over the world. It’s up to us to respond
by offering innovative applications.T he third and final border concerns our
traditional partners, i.e., distributors, panelbuilders, electricians and OEMs.
For us, they are strategic allies. In this area, e-business—which includes
e-commerce, e-maintenance and e-technical support—offers tremendous
opportunities for our customers and partners, as well as for ourselves
in terms of the speed and efficiency of our in-house processes.
You’ve often said that e-business is a strategic priority
for Schneider Electric. How do you plan to make
it a competitive advantage?
We’ve got a considerable base for leveraging e-business to accelerate our
Schneider 2000+ program. Our strengths include an extensive technical
infrastructure, an in-depth knowledge of our customers and their needs,
a strong relationship with our distributors and an increasingly networked
product lineup. T he creation of a dedicated e-business division alongside
our other operating divisions will provide Schneider Electric with a flexible,
nimble and entrepreneurial unit that will produce important cost, speed
and growth benefits starting in 2000.
What are Schneider Electric’s ambitions
in the years ahead?
Our approach is pragmatic.With Schneider 2000+, we’ve defined specific
goals for the end of 2001, which all our teams are working hard to reach.
We’re on track concerning profitable growth. Further out, our ambition
is simple. Today, we rank among the world leaders in our industry.
Tomorrow, we’ll be the world specialist and the leader in each
of our electrical distribution, industrial control and automation businesses.
In this way, we will create more value on a steady, long-term basis
for our shareholders, customers and employees.
Henri Lachmann
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Interview with the Chairman 3