iRobot Corp. has recently signed a definitive agreement to acquire the iRobot-related distribution business of privately-held Sales On Demand Corporation (SODC) based in Tokyo, Japan. The acquisition is expected to close in April 2017 and will help iRobot to maintain its position and accelerate the growth of its business in Japan through direct control of pre- and post-sales market activities including sales, marketing, branding, channel relationships and customer service. SODC has been iRobot’s exclusive distribution partner in Japan since 2004 and is well respected by top channel partners. Japan is a key strategic country for iRobot, being the largest consumer robotics market outside of North America. iRobot will appoint a new president & general manager for Japan who will report directly to iRobot’s COO Christian Cerda, and assume day-to-day operational responsibility for all market activities in Japan. «Forward integration in Japan is a strategic step for iRobot as a leading global consumer technology company – said Colin Angle, chairman and CEO of the company – The Japanese distribution model served us well in establishing our initial presence and brand in the region, catapulting iRobot to the market leading position. As the dynamics of the robotic floor care segment evolve in Japan, we believe iRobot itself is better positioned to drive increased adoption and continue market leadership in that region. We are honored to have the SODC distribution team join the iRobot family as we take the next step on our journey.»
