Sony’s Image Sensing Solutions unit will enlarge its distribution network across Eastern Europe in a bid to bolster regional business.

“We expect to add partners in all major Eastern European countries to serve their local markets,” said Gary Quinn, senior manager for the region. “We do not have a cap on the quantity, if there is potential in the country we will open there.”

Sony’s ISS division markets industrial and professional products based on core technology developed within Sony’s camera groups.

The network will bring Sony’s camera technology to OEM customers and system integrators in applications such as security/CCTV, videoconferencing, low light vision, medical and traffic monitoring.

The ISS Eastern European distributor network already includes partners in several territories. Business Media is based in Moscow; Tayama in Katowice; Elvia in Prague and Mitax based in Budapest. The partners provide local support for integration of Sony ISS news and products.

“Eastern Europe represents a significant growth opportunity for Sony ISS and this is a strategic commitment to build close lasting relationships with both partners and customers,” Quinn added in a statement.

Last month, Sony opened an Eastern European call center in Sofia, Bulgaria to provide clients with real time information about new products and prices, as well as money back claims and problems in delivery.

Sony Global has gone through a three-year restructuring, cutting jobs and product lines and closing factories. In the last year the company has reported robust sales, particularly with digital cameras, camcorders and notebooks. Sony’s European electronics sales reached $14.3B (9.1B Euro) billion in the fiscal year ending March 2007.