Phone makers are not just competing on products but also in showcasing it better to consumers. Samsung and BlackBerry-maker Research In Motion announced the debut of their exclusive retail stores in India in a bid to give consumers a hands-on experience of their devices.

Samsung launched its first ‘Samsung Mobile Brand Store' in Delhi spread over 1,600 sq.ft at Select City Walk Mall in Saket. It features Samsung's entire smart-phones range, including tablets and accessories. The Blackberry maker also launched its retail concept with the opening of the BlackBerry Premium Store in Delhi.

These stores have multiple product demonstrations and dedicated areas for interacting with product consultants. The handset makers claim that these stores are managed by a specially trained team of professionals who are well versed with all the products and can advise the consumers of the products best suited for them as per their requirements.

Mr B.D. Park, Managing Director, Samsung India Electronics Ltd, said, “We are confident that our consumers will enjoy this new approach in smart-phone retailing and we will look at further expanding the Samsung Mobile Store network in the country this year.”

Currently, Samsung has 19 smart-phones in the price range of Rs 7,350 to Rs 38,250 and its tablet range features three models in the Rs 30,350-39,500 range.

To engage the customers, a caricature artist will be based at the store and consumers can get their caricatures made on the Samsung Galaxy Note. Finnish handset maker Nokia already has several such stores in the country.

>tkt@thehindu.co.in

Related Topics