Metrodata adds outlets

JAKARTA (JP): Publicly listed PT Metrodata Electronics, an information technology company, plans to open 21 retail outlets as part of its three-year program to increase sales and service.

"We will invest Rp 1 billion (US$128,000) to set up the retail offices," president director Lesan Limanardja told a news conference held on Thursday to launch a scholarship program for university students.

The company, which is also the sole agent of Seiko Epson printers and personal computers, has so far operated 11 outlets in Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, Bandung, Medan, North Sumatra, and Pekanbaru, Riau.

The three-year accelerated program also encompasses introduction of new high-tech services, Lesan said.

Lesan said the company recorded Rp 306 billion of sales in the first semester and predicted Rp 612 billion for the whole year.

The company increased its 1998 sales 7.4 percent to 494.3 billion but suffered a loss of Rp 78.9 billion due to the depreciation of the rupiah. (06)