The Hindu Business Line : Hantex plans new range of garments

IN an attempt to benefit from the revival of interest in handloom fabric, the Kerala State Handloom Weavers' Co-operative Society Ltd (Hantex) is preparing to launch a range of new handloom garments in the State.

On the cards are a collection of handloom sarees and cotton salwar kameez sets based on contemporary patterns provided by the National Institute of Design, said Mr S. Prakash, Managing Director, Hantex.

The new products will be launched by early next year and will be sold through the company's 150-store retail network, he added. The idea is to have the products in stores in time for the `Vishu' festival next year, he said.

The company is working with the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode to create a distinct branding strategy for these garments, Mr Prakash said. Details of this initiative, including possible brand names, are likely to be finalised in a couple of weeks, he added.

Meanwhile, the company is also working on a project to develop `value-added' products such as quilts and curtain materials. Similarly, it is attempting to introduce innovative designs and finishes for its range of readymade shirts, he said. The company is also in the process of setting up a training unit at Balaramapuram near Thiruvananthapuram. This facility will help handloom weavers update their skills in areas such as design, he said.

Hantex has also submitted a Rs 40.8-crore restructuring proposal to the Government of India, he said. This proposal, if approved, will involve a complete revamp of the organisation including steps to improve the look and feel of its retail outlets, he added.

Given the renewed interest in cotton fabric, especially handloom, the opportunities are extremely good, he said. For instance, the company's sales during the Onam season this year were worth Rs 12 crore, he added. However, the heavy interest burden on the State's handloom co-operatives is proving to be a constraint on the sector's growth, Mr Prakash said.