The Hindu Business Line : Kian enters Indian market

KIAN, a Malaysian range of furniture has entered the Indian market. Launching the range in Bangalore, Mr James H.H. Ng, CEO and President, Kian Furniture, said, "We're targeting the middle class in India. `Lifestyle within reach' is going to be our USP."

According to the CEO of Kian India, Mr Ramesh Dugar, "India is ready to take the change in lifestyle and so we decided to bring it here." Though Kian Malaysia has been exporting its furniture to 100 other countries in the world, this is the first time; it has set up an exclusive store outside Malaysia. The opening range, called Cameron, is a signature range reminiscent of the British Colonial period in India. "This range is designed and made in Malaysia, but soon we want to start offering ethnic Indian designs." Kian Furniture is a $30-million company manufacturing set ups in Indonesia, China and Malaysia.

The company is also looking at launches in other cities in the country, "probably through a tie-up with malls or big stores," says Mr Dugar.

Kian furniture, priced between Rs 10,000 and Rs 35,000 is designed to suit both residential and commercial needs, feels Mr Dugar. Starbucks, Coffeebean, Pizza Hut, KFC and Arrios are some of Kian's international clients.

The Indian furniture market is estimated at Rs 35,000 crore. "And 75 per cent of this is in the unorganised sector," says Mr Dugar.

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication

Stories in this Section
Gestetner draws plan to lure corporate clients

`Ad firms are squeezed to be innovative'

Zee-Turner banks on Cartoon Network for Chennai market

Luxor scouts for DM outfit for brand

Direct selling firms to tap small towns for volumes

`It's time to bring back integrity in product branding'

Kian enters Indian market

Tata Motors launches new version of Safari

Skoda's Superb to hit roads in Jan

Foster's beer launched

`Trendsmith' designer jewellery