Bobby Patton (News - Alert), the president and CEO of Patton Electronics, will be part of a World Trade Center Institute panel on doing business in South Africa.  Along with South African Economic Minister Sandile Tyini, Patton will discuss the company’s experiences doing business in Africa’s largest economy.

“My presentation will focus on our most current business experiences in the region, including lessons learned,” Patton said. “I will highlight what has worked very well and what would be two or three key things to watch out for when entering the South Africa market.”

One example of what not to do, said Patton, is to try to force-fit your company into the South African market. Patton Electronics struggled when it first entered the country until the company found its niche. Fortunately, Patton was able to stick with the market for the long term by relying on income from other business segments.

“By investing in long-term development, we were able to establish brand name recognition. That has paid off by establishing a steady revenue stream,” explained  Patton. 

The company persevered, helping South African businesses to recognize not only the value of Patton products but also how the products fit their business models.

“While we continue serving early customers, today we are fielding inquiries from national service providers that demand reliable products. South Africa has come to recognize Patton VoIP products as a stable, high-quality solution.”

Patton Electronics provides surveillance, connectivity and network access products. The company is Microsoft (News - Alert) Lync-certified and does business in 120 countries around the world.

The company started in 1984 by making modems and connectivity products for telecommunication companies. Patton’s current focus is VoIP technology and G.SHDSL transmission, which has significantly changed its product mix.

Today, Patton manufactures more than 300 products, including voice and data gateways, routers and servers. The company also delivers integrated access solutions for TDM, packet, dial-up, leased lines and multiservices.

The company currently groups its South African business segment with its efforts in European countries.