French sound major Focal Audio has rolled out its exclusive retail network in India with the launch of its first outlet in Kolkata.
“Music lovers in Kolkata are more conscious about the quality of sound than other Indian markets like Delhi,” Christophe Sicaud, Worldwide Chief Executive Officer, Focal Audio Systems told Business Line on the sidelines of launch of the its 2,000-square foot store in upmarket Gariahat in South Kolkata on Wednesday. Focal will set up 4 more stores across the country — in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Pune — by March 2014. The company was so far operating through multi-brand distribution channels.
India currently accounts for over 3 per cent of Focal’s global business, which is close to $130 million (approximately Rs 771 crore). The share is expected to rise to nearly 8 per cent in the next two years, he said.
“We are looking at introducing products suited to the Indian market. Once we achieve economies of scale we might also consider putting up a manufacturing base here,” Sicaud said.
Kammal Dhingreja, CEO, Preeti Trading Corporation, the national distributor of Focal Audio Systems, said the French company has tied up with Renault for marketing its audio systems globally.
“Talks are on with a few auto manufacturers; something might materialise soon,” he said.
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