CEA Honors William Kasuga With Its Lifetime Achievement Award

8-Jan-01

In recognition of his exceptional leadership and vision, as well as his contributions to the consumer electronics industry, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) presented William Kasuga, co-founder and former Chairman of the board for Kenwood U.S.A. Corp. with its Lifetime Achievement Award.CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro recognized Kasuga during the Opening Keynote at the 2001 International CES, held January 6-9, along with the 2001 inductees into the Consumer Electronics Hall Of Fame. Shapiro also presented him with a special plaque during the CES Awards Reception on January 7. Kasuga co-founded Kenwood Electronics Inc. in 1961 as a distribution company for a Japanese consumer electronics manufacturer, and gradually built Kenwood into a major consumer brand synonymous with quality stereo systems. After selling Kenwood Electronics to its manufacturing partner in Japan, which adopted the Kenwood brand name worldwide, the American company changed its name to Kenwood U.S.A. Corp. In 1993, as the company enjoyed sales of more than $500 million and more than 300 employees, Kasuga was named Chairman of the Board. Kenwood U.S.A. remains the largest division of Kenwood Corp. in Japan. In 1995 Kasuga resigned as Chairman and as a member of the Board of Directors, but retained membership in the Executive Committee and the 401K Trustees Board. Today, Kasuga serves as advisor to Kenwood's President. Kenwood U.S.A Corp. is responsible for bringing several groundbreaking products to market, including the first audio/video amplifier for home theatre and the first anti-theft car cassette deck that could be slid out of the dash. Currently, Kenwood products are distributed in more than 120 countries around the world, and Kenwood USA markets more than 250 products. ""Bill Kasuga has been, and continues to be, an influential leader in the consumer electronics industry,"" said Shapiro. ""I am proud to present him will this well-deserved award for his numerous contributions to both Kenwood and the industry-at-large."" A profile on Kasuga, as well as a complete list of Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame inductees can be viewed online at www.CE.org.

Read More:
http://www.CE.org