Palm and Sanyo Unveil Handheld-Ready Coats

Palm, Inc., a leading provider of handheld computers, and Sanyo Fashion House, a subsidiary of Sanyo Shokai Tokyo, one of the largest international apparel manufacturers in Japan, have collaborated to create a new handheld-ready line of spring raincoats with a “Designed for Palm(TM) Handhelds” pocket.

These luxurious raincoats, complete with a Palm logo button securing the pocket, are made for both men and women. Fashion-conscious consumers can now use the specially designed interior pocket of Sanyo’s coats to securely store and easily access their Palm handhelds. “Palm’s design philosophy compels our products to be not only functional, but also fashionable and wearable,” said Byron Connell, vice president, product management and planning, Palm, Inc. “Sanyo’s beautifully designed raincoats exemplify these characteristics by providing Palm handheld users with a stylish new way to carry their handhelds.”

“After extensive market research, Sanyo has identified that its customers are often Palm handheld users who need a pocket with greater security and accessibility,” said Chris Champlin, national sales manager at Sanyo Fashion House. “Palm handhelds are a vital resource in our customers’ busy lives and these new coats embody the fashion and function these customers want.”

The pocket uses a static shield lining material, waterproof liner and a laser engraved Palm logo button closure. Several coats with this feature are currently available for both men and women as part of Sanyo’s Spring 2001 Collection. Prices range from $185 to $695 at fine specialty stores nationwide. The upcoming Fall 2001 Collection will also feature coats with a pocket designed for Palm handhelds.