Even though Nokia remains the #1 mobile maker in the global market, Samsung, has managed to hold down the top spot in Canada for the fourth consecutive quarter. Samsung also took top honors for mobile device loyalty in Canada which probably accounts for their consistent successful performance.

According to the study conducted by the IDC, 793,500 Samsung phones were shipped in Canada for the last quarter of 2008.

With such a strong performance in 2008 and plans of releasing more innovative smartphones, touch phones and messaging devices for this year, no wonder Samsung Electronics Canada is quite optimistic about 2009 despite the existing global economic crisis.

Loyalty Keeps Samsung at No. 1 Spot in Canadian Wireless Market

Leading research firm finds Samsung Canada leads in brand loyalty and market share

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 24 /CNW/ - For the fourth consecutive quarter, Samsung Electronics Canada has captured the number one position in terms of mobile handset shipments in Canada. Along with market share, the most recent report from IDC Canada indicates Samsung also took top spot in mobile device loyalty.

According to IDC Canada's Quarterly Mobile Device Tracker report, Samsung led the national total mobile phone vendor category for each quarter of 2008. Even more telling is another IDC Canada report analyzing mobile device brand preferences that found Samsung handsets were the most popular, with 24.5 per cent of survey respondents indicating they currently own and use a Samsung
handset(1). The same study also found Samsung handsets ranked the highest in customer loyalty.

"Without a doubt the Canadian wireless device market is a very active and competitive space and Samsung takes great pride in being recognized as the national market share leader for 2008," said Paul Brannen, General Manager, Wireless Terminals, Samsung Electronics Canada. "We anticipate 2009 to be another strong year for Samsung handsets as we have a variety of innovative smartphones, touch phones and messaging devices set to launch throughout the year."

According to the IDC study, Samsung shipped 793,500 mobile units during the fourth quarter of 2008.

"Market intelligence has shown Canadians demand a mobile handset that meets and exceeds their evolving, day-to-day needs," says Kevin Restivo, senior mobility analyst, IDC Canada. "Fortunately, manufacturers are producing feature-rich handsets that allow for more effective communication practices on both a personal and professional level."