Sotec teams with PC Depot to offer "Japan's cheapest" PCs - The Pulse - Sotec Company Ltd - Brief Article

Japan, Inc., April, 2003

... IN BRIEF: Computer maker Sotec and major PC chain PC Depot formed a business alliance to develop a joint brand, Valueup, which they claim will be Japan's cheapest PC. The Valueup series, consisting of three types, is priced between [yen]49, 700 and [yen]79,700. Valueup PCs started selling at PC Depot's stores and over the Net in March.

... COMMENTARY: Sotec was once a rising star on Nasdaq Japan, its image one of low prices and good quality. But its balance sheets deteriorated; the company simply expanded too fast.

Now, troubled Sotec is trying to revive its businesses under the leadership of a private-equity fund. Active Investment Partners (AIP) last year acquired a 17.7 percent share of Sotec to become the largest shareholder.