Both companies have maps for Lebanon but use different systems. Under the agreement, NavLeb and Orion will incorporate their systems to provide the map service to customers.

“This will further enhance the industry,” said Toufic Chamoun, NavLeb’s marketing manager.

NavLeb will integrate its digital map system known as Garmin with the versatile Sygic navigation software of Orion to produce a Sygic navigation software. The integrated software runs on Windows CE Mobile phones and Personal Navigation Devices (PND). It will be offered to clients in Lebanon.

“We decided to join efforts to leverage the strength of each company to offer customers with new products alongside the Garmin line that we offer”, said Joseph Hage, NavLeb’s Managing Director.

“This agreement will help us concentrate our efforts on what we do best and that is making maps for the Middle East and beyond… we are a map data provider after all”, said John Helou, Orion Deputy General Manager.

“Both companies will work on other projects together in the future,” said Chamoun.

Only three companies currently offer the GPS service in the local market, NavLeb, Orion and a third company known as GIS Transport. Established in 2008, NavLeb offers its services only in the local market while Orion offers the service locally and in the Gulf.

The GPS market in Lebanon is still at its early stages. Today, the service is mostly offered to Lebanese who reside abroad and come to spend vacations in the country. It is also offered to local residents but at a lower rate.