Singapore - Océ Technologies Asia plans to double its research and development headcount as it is set to expand its base of operations in Singapore.

With a current headcount of 160 in Singapore, the document management and printing company is now focused on contributing to the state-of-the-art platform developments for high volume cutsheet digital printers. Andre Hoeben, managing director of Océ Singapore explains they are confident of Océ's continued growth and sees Asia Pacific as an important growth region.

"We believe that the continued investment in people and technology through a recession is the key to outperforming the market as the recession softens. The current over-supply of talented engineers fits this strategy well," says Hoeben.

Also, having a research and development centre close to its manufacturing activities in Asia has provided the company access to a pool of talent with specific printer-related experience. However, Hoeben adds that Océ is always cautious by ensuring the staff they hire are committed to a career in Océ and not candidates who perceive them hiring in a recession as "a safe port in the storm".

Given the economic climate, Oce's financial performance from 2008 till now has been encouraging. Hoeben feels the company has been able to mitigate the impact of the economic downturn and the declining of markets through diversified business strategies. It has been strengthening its competitive position in segments of business services, display graphics, colour continuous feed printing and cutsheet production printing.

"Océ has been able to avoid headcount reduction to date in Asia by managing its cost base effectively, especially indirect and non-staff related costs," says Hoeben.