Simon Lewis

Sharp Moves Up Launch of Kameyama 2 LCD Panel Factory

Sharp's earlier than expected launch of mass-production from their Gen 8 Kameyama No. 2 fab will not significantly impact their available of key 32" and 37" panels since these are not produced efficiently at the new plant; the volume of production at Kameyama No. 1 of 45" and larger panels was limited so freed up capacity is not enormous. Sharp will continue to depend on Taiwanese suppliers to make up their numbers.

However, Sharp will able able to make a serious play in the >40" market for the first time, and this is significant.

Probably most significant is the innovative processes that Sharp claim to have in their new plant. Sharp already have the highest margins in the industry. If they have truly succeeded in significantly reducing unit costs, then their challenge to plasma (especially Matsushita) and current large format LCD market leaders Sony and Samsung could restore Sharp to the leadership position they enjoyed until a little more than 1 year ago.